Johnston's release is 'a message to the world'

The release of kidnapped BBC reporter Alan Johnston is a message to the world that Hamas is capable of maintaining security and stability in the Gaza Strip, a senior official of the militant Palestinian group said today.

Mr Johnston, 45, was freed today after nearly four months in captivity in Gaza. His release came after Hamas, which controls Gaza, stepped up the pressure on his captors, a group called the Army of Islam.