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The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) is calling on The Washington Post to stop quoting Hamas on the issue of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The full text of a letter written on Sunday by CAM CEO Sacha Roytman to Washington Post Executive Editor Sally Buzbee can be read here:
Dear Ms. Buzbee,
I hope this letter finds you well. I would like to express my deep respect for The Washington Post as a pivotal journalistic institution in the United States. Your commitment to upholding the principles of free press and responsible reporting is commendable.
However, I am writing to you today with deep concern about a recent article published by your esteemed publication on X. The post in question shocked me by quoting the terrorist group Hamas on the subject of war crimes. As a reader who holds The Washington Post in high regard, I found this approach deeply troubling.
The “forced evacuation” of al-Shifa hospital in northern Gaza by Israeli forces Saturday morning, as well as its use and destruction by the Israel Defense Forces, constitute “war crimes and crimes against humanity, a senior Hamas representative said. https://t.co/s1S2vkEN4C
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) November 18, 2023
Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by several countries and international organizations, including the United States, Israel, the European Union, Canada, and others. These designations are based on various factors, including Hamas’s history of violence, its stated goals, and its involvement in acts of terrorism. On October 7, 2023, Hamas committed crimes against humanity, murdering 1,200 Israelis, including children, elderly people, women, and men, and they currently hold 238 people hostage in Gaza.
Quoting a terrorist group on matters of war crimes is akin to citing historical figures such as Hitler on antisemitism or ISIS on religious freedom. It is, in my view, unacceptable and raises questions about the ethical standards of journalism. While I understand the importance of providing diverse perspectives, there are ethical boundaries that should not be crossed.
I believe that responsible journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering informed debate. It is essential to maintain a strong commitment to ethical reporting and ensure that the voices of those who promote violence and terrorism are not given undue prominence.
I kindly request that The Washington Post revisits its editorial policies to prevent such instances in the future. Upholding the highest ethical standards in journalism is not only a professional obligation but also a moral imperative.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns. I look forward to seeing The Washington Post continue its important work as a beacon of reliable and responsible journalism.
Sincerely,
Sacha Roytman Chief Executive Officer Combat Antisemitism Movement
