BBC Staff Accuse the Broadcaster of Forcing Israeli PR
Over 400 media professionals—including 111 BBC journalists—sign open letter alleging anti‑Palestinian racism and board-level conflicts.
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More than 400 media figures, including 111 current BBC journalists, have signed an open letter condemning the corporation for acting as “PR for the Israeli government and military,” following a series of editorial decisions perceived to downplay Palestinian suffering and prioritize Israel’s narrative.
Core Allegations
The letter claims the BBC’s coverage “falls short” of its own impartiality standards, failing to analyze UK government arms sales or airlifting narratives critical of Israel’s actions .
BBC’s decision to shelf “Gaza: Doctors Under Attack” and “Gaza: Medics Under Fire”—films with harrowing footage of attacks on Palestinian medics—was seen as political censorship, driven by fear of appearing anti‑Israel.
Staff condemned Sir Robbie Gibb—a BBC board member with close ties to the Jewish Chronicle and Conservative circles—accusing him of ideological interference in editorial affairs.
Employee Testimonies
An anonymous BBC insider said the following about the broadcaster: “All too often it has felt that the BBC has been performing PR for the Israeli government and military.”
Another insider also said, “Opaque editorial decisions and censorship … we believe the role of Robbie Gibb … is untenable.”
They also warn that staff are being “gaslit” and that editorial standards are being suspended to accommodate political agendas.
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BBC’s Response and Repercussions
The BBC leadership has defended its editorial integrity, citing guidelines and internal checks for content decisions. However, these reassurances have done little to quell criticism. Critics, including prominent public figures like Miriam Margolyes and Mike Leigh, have called for Robbie Gibb’s removal, arguing his presence undermines credibility.
This revolt compounds other recent controversies: live-streaming anti‑IDF chants at Glastonbury, delayed removal of footage, and earlier suspensions of Gaza-related documentaries—all prompting over 400 current staff to demand an internal reckoning and renewed commitment to impartial reporting.