Kidnapped BBC correspondent reported dead

In Beirut, a group of journalists have gathered in support of BBC Gaza correspondent, Alan Johnston, kidnapped a month ago in Gaza City. Earlier, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaeda claimed it had killed the correspondent.

The journalists congregated outside Lebanon's Press Association building.

In a statement sent to news agencies, the group known as the Al Tawid Al Jihad brigade says it killed Alan Johnston to support demands for the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

The BBC says it is aware of the reports, but stresses that there has been no independent verification.

Alan Johnston was seized as he left his office in Gaza on March 12. 

There have been no demands from his captors or information on his whereabouts.