Al-Jazeera journalist Abdullah El Shamy has finally been released from prison following 147 days on hunger strike. Prosecutors ordered that El Shamy, who had been held behind bars since August 14, be freed on health grounds. A statement from the prosecutor's office also said that 13 other people would be freed on the same grounds.

The news comes despite an earlier court ruling, which allowed for El Shamy's detention to be extended by 45 days. El Shamy faces accusations of disrupting public order and provoking violence but has yet to be referred to trial.

The journalist was arrested on August 14, when police forces dispersed two major protest camps held by supporters of ousted Islamist President Mohamed Morsi.
A spokesman for Al Jazeera said: "This is a relief rather than a cause for celebration. Abdullah has been through a terrible ordeal for over 10 months. He'll want to spend time with his family and recuperate. When he's ready, we look forward to seeing him back in action, doing the vital job of journalism that he so clearly loves."
However Al Jazeera English journalists Peter Greste, Baher Mohamed and Mohamed Fahmy remain behind bars. The trio face charges of 'spreading false news.' A verdict in their case is due on June 23.