Journalists Criticize Gaza Coverage: 'A Betrayal'

The reporting on the war between Israel and Hamas has sparked intense debate. Medierna in P1 spoke with several journalists dissatisfied with the coverage at their newsrooms.

– I, along with others, have felt obstructed when trying to deepen the narrative of what is happening in Gaza, says investigative reporter Lisa Röstlund.

Several journalists interviewed by Medierna in P1 describe feeling hindered by their editorial leadership from reporting on the war in Gaza.

Investigative reporter Lisa Röstlund, who previously worked at DN, shares that she left her workplace due to the difficulties she experienced.

– I have spoken with many who have experienced the same at SR, SVT, and other major newsrooms, she tells Expressen.

Reporter: It's About Fear

Lisa Röstlund believes the resistance she encountered among editorial leaders may stem from fear.

– I think it initially was about a fear of diminishing the October 7 terror attack and a fear of appearing antisemitic, as that is an argument often used against criticism of Israel.

– Israel's response quickly escalated to clear violations of international law, and I cannot explain why the resistance has continued. It's a significant and interesting issue that should be examined.

In recent weeks, she has noticed a change and believes the reporting on Gaza has improved. However, she argues that the media has betrayed its readers.

– Self-examination is needed to regain the public's trust.

DN Does Not Recognize the Description

Anna Åberg, editorial chief at DN, says in Medierna in P1 that she does not recognize the accusations and that it is a natural part of the work process for some texts to be scrutinized more than others.

– When topics are highly polarizing or sensitive, we need to be more thorough and review the texts more carefully. It's part of the promise we have to our readers and a completely natural part of the work process, she says in the program.

She argues that it is not true that the newspaper has prioritized the war in Gaza less than other major news events.

– I do not recognize that. We have daily coverage of Israel's war in Gaza.

Expressen has sought Anna Åberg.