The role of pro-Israel lobby groups in shaping media coverage in the United Kingdom has long been a topic of debate and controversy. With the majority of mainstream British media outlets leaning towards a pro-Israel stance, it is crucial to understand how these lobby groups exert their influence on the media landscape. This article delves into the various aspects of this influence, highlighting key players, strategies, and their impact on media outlets in the UK.
Rupert Murdoch’s Media Empire
Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul behind News International, wields significant influence in the UK media landscape. His empire controls a substantial share of British newspaper press, ranging from 30% to 40%. What makes this influence noteworthy is his unwavering pro-Israel sympathies, which are no secret. This alignment with the pro-Israel stance on the Palestine issue shapes the editorial direction of media outlets under his control.
The Role of BICOM
The Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre (BICOM) plays a pivotal role in promoting the Israeli viewpoint within the UK media. BICOM seeks to influence media coverage by targeting not only journalists but also media owners, executives, and frontline employees. Described as “Britain’s most active pro-Israeli lobbying organization,” BICOM is known for its proactive and influential approach in presenting Israel’s case to journalists.
Media Pressure and Self-Censorship
There have been instances of media figures and journalists who have pointed out the reluctance within the media to discuss the Israeli factor in various events, such as the September 11 attacks in the United States. Journalist Richard Ingrams highlighted “pressure from the Israeli lobby” that led many journalists to avoid addressing matters related to Israel and its business links, even if they were typically outspoken. Sam Kiley, a journalist with The Times, resigned, claiming that his work was heavily censored due to the Zionist sympathies of Rupert Murdoch.
Documentary filmmaker John Pilger’s work, “Palestine Is Still the Issue,” faced opposition from various pro-Israel lobby groups. They expressed outrage over the film and demanded a “pro-Israel” version, demonstrating the pressure exerted on British journalists by these lobby groups.
Influence on British Jews
The pro-Israel lobby has not only targeted media outlets but also has had a significant influence on the British Jewish community. After the outbreak of the Second Intifada in 2000, Jewish leaders met with the Israeli ambassador and raised funds for pro-Israel lobbying and public relations. This reflects an ongoing debate within the community on the role of lobby groups like BICOM, whether they should remain behind the scenes or become more upfront in promoting the pro-Israel viewpoint.
Media Outlets and Their Stance
Some media organizations, such as the Murdoch press, Telegraph Media Group, and Express Newspapers, have leaned towards supporting Israel, as has Associated Newspapers, albeit to a lesser extent. However, two notable media organizations, The Guardian and the BBC, have consistently tried to present the Palestinian point of view with equal force alongside the pro-Israeli government line. As a result, they have faced ceaseless pressure and at times harassment from both the Israeli government and pro-Israel pressure groups.
The Guardian’s Historical Connection
The Guardian has a unique historical connection to Israel, as its editor, C.P. Scott, played a pivotal role in the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which laid the foundation for the creation of Israel.
The BBC’s Struggles
The BBC has faced several challenges from pro-Israel lobby groups, from refusing to screen aid appeals for Gaza to publishing reports critical of its own Middle East editor, Jeremy Bowen. The decision to withhold a report by Malcolm Balen on its Middle East coverage, coupled with significant legal expenses, underscores the challenges the BBC faces in dealing with the pro-Israel lobby’s pressure.
The influence of pro-Israel lobby groups on UK media is a complex and contentious issue. While media outlets such as The Guardian and the BBC strive to present a balanced perspective, they face constant pressure from these lobby groups. Understanding this dynamic is essential for a nuanced evaluation of media coverage on issues related to Israel and Palestine.
