British Foreign Office officials identified the latest victim as Paul Martin, a freelance journalist who was arrested at a Gaza courthouse. He was accused of supporting a terrorist charged with collaborating with Israel. Martin has written for various British media, including the BBC and the Times of London.
"We have confessions that the British journalist committed offenses against Palestinian law, and that harms the security of the country," Interior Ministry spokesman Ehab Al-Ghsain said.
One Hamas spokesman said that Martin will be held for two weeks. Observers are optimistic that Hamas' desire to improve its image will spare Martin the fate of Johnston, who endured harsh conditions during part of his captivity and whose life was feared to be in danger until he was released after intense pressure by Britain.
During his ordeal, Johnston said his wrists were handcuffed behind his back and a black hood was placed over his head. At one point, a report was broadcast that he had been killed.