Words Matter: Unpacking the BBC’s Choice Not to Call Hamas ‘Terrorists
The BBC’s editorial policy regarding the labeling of Hamas militants as “terrorists” in its coverage of the recent conflict in Israel has sparked controversy. The British Broadcasting Corporation has chosen not to refer to Hamas members as “terrorists,” a decision that has faced criticism from various quarters.
The policy has been defended by a BBC spokesperson who emphasized the organization’s long-standing practice of not using the term unless it is directly attributed to a source. According to the BBC, their approach aims to ensure balanced reporting by not taking sides in the conflict.
However, this decision has drawn sharp rebukes from several UK politicians, including Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, who labeled the policy as “verging on disgraceful.” Shapps criticized the BBC’s reluctance to describe Hamas as “terrorists,” considering the organization’s proscription in the UK as a terrorist group involved in violent acts, including the killing of innocent civilians.
Similarly, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer have urged the broadcaster to reconsider its stance. Sir Keir Starmer expressed his views, asserting that the actions witnessed during the conflict could be rightfully characterized as “terrorism.”
The debate surrounding the use of the term “terrorist” in media coverage is not new. The BBC’s policy aligns with their editorial guidelines, which caution against using language that could impede audience understanding. Rather than adopting inflammatory labels, the BBC aims to present the facts and allow viewers to form their own conclusions.
The BBC’s defense of its policy rests on the principles of journalistic integrity, objectivity, and the duty to report events accurately without taking a partisan stance. The guideline is rooted in the belief that presenting neutral information allows the audience to make informed assessments.
Moreover, the controversy around the BBC’s decision reflects broader debates in journalism about the use of language and the balance between neutrality and clarity in reporting conflicts. Other broadcasters, such as Sky News and ITN, follow more flexible guidelines, allowing newsrooms to decide on terminology on a case-by-case basis.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has been a major focus in the media, attracting attention worldwide. The BBC’s choice not to label certain groups as “terrorists” underscores the challenges and responsibilities faced by news organizations when reporting on complex and sensitive geopolitical events.
