The ABC has removed a TikTok story by reporter Amal Wehbe, which portrayed consumer boycotts against Israel favorably
The story covered the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, featuring a Lebanese restaurant owner in Bankstown, Sydney, advocating for the boycott. The owner, referred to as ‘Oz,’ highlighted the importance of boycotting Israeli and US products, specifically mentioning Coca-Cola. Wehbe’s report did not criticize the BDS movement but explored its impact on companies and their stance toward Israel.
Controversial Removal and Criticism
The removal of the TikTok video sparked controversy, with critics, including Chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission Dr. Dvir Abramovich, calling it “beyond belief.” He expressed concern about the inflammatory nature of the report amid rising anti-Semitism. Cedar Wrap declined to comment, and the ABC is yet to respond.
ABC Radio Presenter Axed Over Pro-Palestine Posts
ABC Sydney mornings fill-in presenter Antoinette Lattouf was removed after sharing pro-Palestine posts on social media. ABC Chair Ita Buttrose was reportedly furious over complaints about Lattouf’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The decision came after Lattouf co-wrote an article questioning claims about anti-Semitic chants at a Sydney Opera House rally, drawing criticism on social media.
In summary, the ABC faced controversy over the removal of a TikTok video on boycotting Israeli products, while another presenter, Antoinette Lattouf, was removed due to her pro-Palestine social media posts, leading to concerns about the broadcaster’s handling of diverse perspectives.