Editorials & Reports
In-depth analysis and comprehensive reports on media bias, misinformation patterns, and editorial practices across major news outlets.
BBC Hamas-Run Qualifiers Study
16th June 2025
Summary Statistics
Number of BBC articles with Hamas-run qualifiers: 144
Credibility Metrics:
Summary
Executive Summary: BBC's Use of "Hamas-run" Undermines Credibility of Gaza Death Toll Reports
Following our preliminary findings published on X, we analysed how major media outlets report Palestinian casualty figures following Israeli attacks. Specifically, we tracked the use of the qualifier "Hamas-run" when referencing Gaza's Health Ministry.
Key Findings
Out of 706 matched articles across BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera, and The Guardian:
- The BBC used "Hamas-run" in 79% of cases.
- By contrast, The Guardian used it in 33%, more often opting for "Gaza Health Ministry" or simply presenting the figures as fact.
BBC's Response
The BBC issued two key justifications:
- Transparency — claiming the qualifier allows audiences to make their own judgement.
- Credibility reinforcement — stating they regularly note that the UN considers the Health Ministry's figures credible.
This prompted thousands of complaint submissions to the BBC through Accountable Media, citing our analysis.
Follow-up Analysis
To test the BBC's claims, we conducted a second analysis of 144 BBC articles that used the "Hamas-run" label. Our findings:
Only 2 articles (1.4%) mentioned that the UN deems the Health Ministry's figures credible — directly undermining the BBC's claim of regular citation.
In 3 articles, the BBC further undermines credibility by stating the Health Ministry "does not differentiate between civilians and combatants."
This exposes a contradiction in the BBC's defence and suggests systematic editorial bias that is not disclosed in their public guidelines — a potential breach of their Royal Charter obligations.
Escalation Template (for Complainants Receiving BBC Responses)
Dear BBC Complaints Team,
I am following up on your response to my recent complaint regarding your use of the qualifier "Hamas-run Health Ministry".
You stated that this wording is used to provide transparency and that your coverage regularly includes context such as the UN's position on the credibility of the Health Ministry's figures.
However, subsequent analysis of 144 BBC articles using the "Hamas-run" qualifier shows that only 2 articles referenced the UN's support for the casualty data. In contrast, 3 articles made additional statements that further question the Health Ministry's credibility (e.g., noting it does not distinguish between combatants and civilians).
This calls into question the accuracy of your justification and raises concerns about systematic editorial choices that are not disclosed in your public guidelines, potentially breaching your Royal Charter obligations.
I request a formal review of this issue and a public explanation of why your editorial guidelines do not reflect this systematic practice.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Articles with Hamas-Run Qualifiers
🍪 Cookie Notice
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on NewsCord. Read cookies policies.