As supporters of Palestinian rights, we wholeheartedly oppose attacks on civilians – whether by Hamas or Israel. However, it is inaccurate to present the actions of Hamas as entirely unprovoked, as it ignores the ongoing violence and oppression against the Palestinian people.
CAMPAIN is particularly concerned about the widespread proliferation of claims about the attacks by Hamas. Some have been shown to be fake news, whilst others remain unverified and highly questionable. This Novara Media video provides an excellent exposé.
David Cannon, Chair of Jewish Network for Palestine and a member of CAMPAIN, has shared a useful template letter for complaining to IPSO, the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We invite you to email IPSO, using the address at the top of the template.
Given the current tensions, such misinformation is likely to embolden people demanding revenge, and this can trigger terrible violence against civilians. Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur for the Occupied Territories, referred to this in a recent tweet saying:
Caution! Numerous claims are circulating, repeated by US officials & amplified by mainstream media re Hamas’ crimes including beheadings/rape. ISR military did not confirm such claims. Divulging unverified information risks to escalate tension & endanger lives in a volatile context”.
Please let us know how you get on and we’ll relay the information to David Cannon.
The CAMPAIN Committee
Email: admin@campain.org