Egypt put three Al Jazeera journalists on trial on Thursday on charges of aiding Egyptians belonging to a "terrorist organisation", in a case criticised by human rights groups who allege authorities are stamping out freedom of expression. The journalists, wearing white prison outfits appearing in metal cages, a Reuters witness said. Six others identified as Al Jazeera journalists are being tried in absentia. Australian Peter Greste, Egyptian-Canadian Mohamed Fahmy and Baher Mohamed have been in prison for 53 days, while the six other staff will be tried in absentia.
The Qatar-based al-Jazeera rejects all the charges and continues to demand the unconditional release of its staff.
The case comes amid tension between Egypt and Qatar that backs ousted Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood.