"I take issue with how you label Hamas and Hezbollah as 'extremist' instead of the more journalistically neutral term 'militant.' Using a loaded word such as extremist strips away the political context and the significant support they hold within their communities, whether one agrees with their politics or not. The word 'extremist' also denotes a significant editorialization of a group in a context in which it is not appropriate."
August 26, 2024
To:
Rob Roberts, Editor-in-Chief, National Post
Ehsanullah Amiri, Reporter, National Post
Dear Mr. Roberts and Mr. Amiri,
I am writing on behalf of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME) concerning your article titled “The Hamas and Hezbollah commanders killed by Israel since October 7,” published on August 22, 2024.
I take issue with how you label Hamas and Hezbollah as "extremist" instead of the more journalistically neutral term “militant.” Using a loaded word such as extremist strips away the political context and the significant support they hold within their communities, whether one agrees with their politics or not. The word “extremist” also denotes a significant editorialization of a group in a context in which it is not appropriate. Journalists should refrain from such strong editorialization, especially as members of the National NewsMedia Council. I urge you to use more balanced language in your news articles and correct this issue
Your piece also suffers from double standards. Compare these two excerpts from your article:
- “Yahya Sinwar, the individual believed to be ultimately responsible for the October 7 attack, was chosen to replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated at the end of July in Tehran. Iran swiftly blamed Israel, but Israel has not publicly acknowledged any role in the killing.”
- “The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that Shukr was behind the rocket attacks on the Golan Heights, which resulted in the deaths of 12 children.”
In the first quote, you include a reference to Israel’s denial of the assassination, or at least its failure to acknowledge its role. However, in the second quote, you fail to give Hezbollah equal treatment and note their firm denial of responsibility for the rocket that killed 12 children in the Golan Heights. This represents a double standard that ought to be promptly resolved.
The National Post has a responsibility to its readers to deliver accurate, balanced, and thoughtful reporting. As it stands, this article fails on all counts.
I await your prompt response.
Anthony Issa
Media Analyst
Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East