Several well-known columnists have stepped down from their positions at the Jewish Chronicle in light of accusations of publishing fabricated articles related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The resignations occurred after the London-based newspaper retracted several pieces written by freelance journalist Elon Perry and issued an apology to its readers, noting that an investigation into the writer raised concerns about the accuracy of some of his claims.
Perry, who identified himself as a former member of the Israel Defense Forces, made assertions in his articles, including one about Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar plotting to escape Gaza with Israeli hostages through the Philadelphi corridor along the Egypt border. Initially, Israeli media outlets shared Perry’s reports, but doubts arose regarding the sources and credibility of the information. The similarities between Perry’s claims and statements previously made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fueled speculation that the articles might have been part of a disinformation campaign.
Among the journalists who resigned in protest against the Jewish Chronicle’s handling of the situation was veteran columnist Jonathan Freedland, who expressed disappointment in the publication for deviating from its journalistic standards. Other columnists who announced their resignation included Hadley Freeman and David Aaronovitch. Additionally, author and comedian David Baddiel’s spokesperson confirmed that he would no longer be contributing columns to the newspaper.
The editor of the Jewish Chronicle, Jake Wallis Simons, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, describing the incident as a nightmare for any newspaper editor and emphasizing that the publication had severed all ties with Elon Perry. Simons reassured readers that enhanced internal measures were being established to prevent similar issues in the future.