BBC Arabic Contributor Calls for Violence Against Jews

Multiple reports have revealed that Samer Elzaenen, a Gazan journalist who has frequently contributed to BBC Arabic, has posted antisemitic and violent remarks on social media, including calls to 'burn Jews as Hitler did' and endorsements of over 30 attacks against Israeli civilians. Another freelance contributor, Ahmed Qannan, also expressed support for violence against Jews and praised terrorists as 'heroes.' Both men are not BBC staff but have regularly appeared as on-air contributors, prompting condemnation from media watchdogs who accuse BBC Arabic of enabling anti-Israel and antisemitic bias through its selection of freelancers. Critics argue that using such contributors undermines the BBC's objectivity and responsibility, with organizations like CAMERA and political figures calling for reform of BBC Arabic. The BBC has stated that it was unaware of the individuals' social media activity prior to featuring them and maintains that it does not tolerate antisemitism on its platforms. The controversy has reignited scrutiny over the broadcaster’s vetting process and its approach to covering the Israel-Gaza conflict.