BBC faces criticism over its decision not to refer to Hamas militants as terrorists during coverage of the recent attacks in Israel. The UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps attacked this policy, deeming it “verging on disgraceful”. Similarly, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer have urged the broadcaster to reassess its policy, and even Sir Keir Starmer commented, claiming that the BBC ‘needs to explain why it isn’t’ using the term ‘terrorist’. Despite this, the BBC has defended its position, stating that its reporters do not use the term unless it is within specific attribution to someone else, and that it is a long-standing position.
BBC foreign correspondent John Simpson has stated, “Calling someone a terrorist means you’re taking sides and ceasing to treat the situation with due impartiality.” He argues that the BBC’s duty is to provide the facts to its audience to allow them to make their own judgments without partisanship. The broadcaster has maintained this stance, maintaining that its role is to present the situation on the ground with no political bias. They have explained that they attribute the term to those who use it, such as the UK Government.
The Israel-Gaza War has dominated the news since the weekend when Hamas entered communities in Israel, killing at least 1,200 people and taking dozens of hostages. Israel responded by bombing Gaza, killing over 1,000 people in air strikes, and cutting off supplies of electricity, fuel and water. As with all media coverage, there are different interpretations of the situation, and the use of this terminology is, therefore, viewed differently both by politicians and broadcasters.
The use of language within the media is incredibly powerful, shaping the way the general public views a particular situation or person. The BBC’s decision not to use specific terminology is a matter of impartiality; however, it has sparked significant criticism from politicians in recent times. In contrast, the BBC argues that allowing the audience to draw their conclusions is an essential part of its role
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