AhlulBayt News Agency: Over 100 current BBC employees have signed an open letter accusing the broadcaster of failing to uphold its editorial standards and acting as “a mouthpiece” for Israel in its coverage of the war on Gaza. The letter, also endorsed by more than 300 media professionals—including actors Miriam Margolyes and Charles Dance, filmmaker Mike Leigh, and historian William Dalrymple—criticizes the BBC for portraying the humanitarian crisis in Gaza in a way that resembles public relations for the Israeli military.
The letter, addressed to BBC Director-General Tim Davie and the board, highlights internal censorship and editorial interference. It claims that staff have faced bias accusations for sharing articles critical of Israel on social media, and that contributors have experienced pressure under the guise of neutrality. A major point of contention is the BBC’s decision to cancel the broadcast of its own commissioned documentary, Gaza: Doctors Under Attack, which will now air on Channel 4. The BBC cited concerns over “a perception of partiality,” but the letter calls this a political decision that reflects a broader fear of criticizing Israel.
The signatories also demand the resignation of board member Robbie Gibb, citing his ties to The Jewish Chronicle, which they accuse of publishing anti-Palestinian content. They argue that Gibb’s role on the editorial standards committee is a conflict of interest and undermines trust in the BBC’s impartiality. The letter further criticizes the BBC for failing to report on the UK government’s involvement in the Gaza war, including arms sales and legal implications—stories that have instead been covered by rival outlets.
According to recent figures, at least 57,338 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have been killed and over 135,000 injured since Israel’s assault on Gaza began on October 7, 2023. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.
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