The New York Times has demonstrated a troubling pattern of downplaying acts of terrorism in its coverage of the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
By repeatedly referring to convicted terrorists as “prisoners” and placing them on the same moral plane as hostages, the Times is spreading dangerous misinformation and eroding public understanding of the crisis.
A glaring example is their use of the term “Hostages-Prisoners Releases” in a dedicated news section. This equates innocent Israeli civilians abducted by Hamas terrorists with individuals who have been convicted of horrific crimes, including mass murder.
The New York Times Website (Screenshot)
One such individual, Mahmud Abu Varda, orchestrated a bombing that killed 45 people, yet the Times fails to mention such atrocities when reporting on their release.
In numerous articles, the Times continues to refer to these violent offenders as “prisoners,” leaving out critical context about their heinous crimes.
Zakaria Zubeidi, a former commander of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades responsible for deadly attacks, is portrayed in similarly sanitized terms.
Trust @nytimes to omit WHY these Palestinian prisoners are serving life sentences. Among them are terrorists behind some of the deadliest attacks in Israeli history. A so-called ‘explainer’ that whitewashes Palestinian terrorism. Again. pic.twitter.com/7vJelEhYtN
— HonestReporting (@HonestReporting) January 19, 2025
This language misleads readers into viewing these exchanges as equal, ignoring the fact that many of those released in past deals returned to committing acts of terror.
By using such euphemistic language, the Times not only distorts the reality of these exchanges but also glorifies individuals responsible for bloodshed. This irresponsible reporting emboldens terrorists and disrespects the memory of the victims who lost their lives to these brutal acts.
Email The New York Times at nytnews@nytimes.com
SAMPLE EMAIL
Subject: Stop equating hostages and terrorists in your reporting
Dear Editors,
I am writing to express concern over your use of the term “prisoners” for convicted terrorists and the troubling decision to equate them with hostages in your “Hostages-Prisoners Releases” coverage.
These individuals are responsible for heinous crimes, and your reporting should reflect this truth. Words matter—please provide accurate and responsible coverage.
Sincerely,