Columnists resign from Jewish Chronicle over alleged fake Gaza articles
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands before a map of the Gaza Strip, telling viewers that Israel must retain control over the "Philadelphi corridor," a strategic area along the territory's border with Egypt, during a news conference in Jerusalem, September 2, 2024. (Reuters Photo)
Several prominent columnists have resigned from the Jewish Chronicle (JC) following allegations that the newspaper published fabricated articles related to the Israeli conflict in Gaza.
The articles, which supported unverified claims by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, were written by freelance journalist Elon Perry, whose work has since been removed from the JC’s website.
Allegations of fabrication and disinformation
The Jewish Chronicle issued an apology to its readers after conducting an internal investigation into Perry’s articles. Although the newspaper did not specify which pieces were problematic, one report involved claims that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar intended to smuggle himself and Israeli captives out of Gaza through the Philadelphi corridor, a disputed border area between Gaza and Egypt.
Perry described himself as a former commando in the Israel Defense Forces, but his reporting has now come under scrutiny, with some media outlets speculating that the articles may have been part of a disinformation campaign supporting Netanyahu’s recent statements about the Philadelphi corridor.
Resignations in protest
Long-time JC columnist Jonathan Freedland announced his resignation on Sunday, calling the scandal “a great disgrace on the paper.”
Freedland, who has written for the Jewish Chronicle for years, stated, “The latest scandal brings great disgrace on the paper, which has departed from the traditions that built its reputation as the world’s oldest Jewish newspaper.”
Hadley Freeman and David Aaronovitch also announced their departures, citing concerns over the newspaper’s integrity. Comedian and author David Baddiel’s spokesperson confirmed that he has “no plans to write any more columns for the paper.”
Freeman posted, “Recent events have made it impossible for me to stay,” while Aaronovitch has not yet publicly commented on his decision. Anshel Pfeffer, an Israeli journalist also shared his thoughts about it and said, “I fully support my colleagues who have done so today and share their concerns.”
Editor responds to the controversy
Jewish Chronicle editor Jake Wallis Simons expressed his feelings over the situation, stating, “It’s every newspaper editor’s worst nightmare to be deceived by a journalist.” He added that the newspaper has severed all ties with Perry, and his work has been removed from their website.
Simons assured readers that the paper is implementing stronger internal procedures to prevent future issues. “Readers can be assured that stronger internal procedures are being implemented,” he wrote on X.
