His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday stressed his rejection of the police attack against journalists during a protest at Al Nakheel Square in Amman Friday.

During a meeting with Jordan Press Association (JPA) President Tareq Momani, the King described the assault as “unjustifiable”.

King Abdullah said the violence, carried out spontaneously by individual police officers, “does not represent the policy of the Public Security Department [PSD], which is a source of our pride for the huge role it plays in maintaining the country’s stability and security”.

At least 20 journalists were injured, five of whom were hospitalised, along with a dozen protesters. The PSD said 32 policemen were also hurt in the clashes.

The committee entrusted with investigating the attack released on Wednesday its report, blaming the PSD in its capacity as the institution responsible for the police officers involved. The committee, which comprised top PSD officers, also blamed protesters for not complying with police arrangements to protect them.

During the meeting, King Abdullah said he was opposed to any practices or restrictions that impede the work of the press, emphasising the importance of their role in conveying information to citizens.

At the same time, it is equally important for the press to ensure professionalism, transparency, credibility and commitment to the truth in dealing with issues of concern to the public.

He emphasised his confidence in the country's security institutions and their commitment to safeguarding security and stability and protecting lives and property, asserting that press freedoms are guaranteed.

King Abdullah said he would instruct the government and security institutions establish measures that protect media personnel while covering various social, political and other functions.

He also called for higher standards of media performance through training and development programmes.

“We want an effective and efficient media that carries our vision to achieve comprehensive reform and to build the best future for all Jordanians,” he said.

In remarks to the press, Momani said his meeting with King Abdullah reflects the King's utmost concern about journalists in Jordan.

Emphasising the King’s support for the media, the JPA president said he briefed the King on what happened on Friday.

King Abdullah stressed the need for a free and responsible media, Momani said.

“We share His Majesty this view,” he said, describing plans to improve the performance of the media as “a big mission”.

Momani quoted the King as expressing his “willingness to eliminate any obstacles facing the media, asserting that legislation should always boost the freedom of the press”.