The restrictions were said to apply notably to media from countries not part of the US-led forces sent to the Gulf to oust Iraqi President Saddam Hussein for his alleged possession of weapons of mass destruction.

"US Central Command policy is now actively restricting independent news gathering from Southern Iraq," a statement issued by EBU said.

Reporters and cameramen who had risked their lives were detained by British and American troops and sent to Kuwait, it said.

"We have independent information that broadcasters can work safely in many areas, so we do not understand why the military is putting so many obstacles in the path of journalists," said EBU's Tony Neats.

"Journalists are now exposed to a much greater risk and the coalition policy targets the quality of their reporting."

SPACE.WIRE