BBC Faces Backlash for Describing Belgium Shooting as "Terror Attack"

Anger over BBC's labeling of Belgium shooting

Public anger has erupted after the BBC referred to the recent shooting in Belgium as a "terror attack," despite not using the same label for Hamas' violent actions. The publicly-funded Corporation has faced criticism for not directly labeling Hamas as "terrorists" during the recent conflict in Israel. The BBC has been accused of "double standards" after using the phrase "terror attack" in a headline without quotes or attribution. The BBC has stated that Belgian prosecutors have described the shooting as a "terror attack," but the headline has since been changed.

Political figures and protesters demand BBC label Hamas as terrorists

Tory MP Brendan Clarke-Smith criticized the BBC for not labeling Hamas as terrorists, stating that "to call it anything else is simply making excuses for this evil." Former No10 chief of staff Nick Timothy also expressed disappointment, saying that he believed the BBC's style guide was a critique, not an endorsement. Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister's spokesman, added pressure on the BBC by stating that "the term terrorist is an accurate legal description." Protesters gathered outside BBC Broadcasting House in London, urging the broadcaster to use the word "terrorist" to describe Hamas.

BBC defends its stance

In response to viewer complaints, the BBC clarified that it does use the term "terrorist" but attributes it to the relevant authorities. The BBC also highlighted that they have made it clear to their audiences that Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by the UK and other governments. The BBC has previously labeled events such as the 9/11 attacks and the Bataclan shooting as acts of "terror."

FA criticized for not showing respect to Hamas attack victims

Meanwhile, Football Association (FA) chiefs have been warned that they need to do more to pay respect to the victims of Hamas' attack on Israel. The FA faced criticism for not lighting up the Wembley arch in the colors of the Israeli flag during a recent game against Australia. Downing Street suggested that the FA could be doing more to show support as England prepares for their upcoming game against Italy.