The Qatar-funded news outlet Al Jazeera reportedly removed a story accusing Israeli soldiers of raping women during a raid at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza after it was found to have been “fabricated.”
Al Jazeera has not yet issued a formal correction or retraction regarding the story. But it appears that the piece has been taken down from the news website over 24 hours after it was published, according to multiple reports.
Yasser Abuhilalah, a columnist and former managing editor at Al Jazeera, stated on X that the source has admitted to having “exaggerated” her claims that she witnessed Israeli soldiers rape women at the hospital.
“The woman who spoke about rape justified her exaggeration and incorrect talk by saying that the goal was to arouse the nation’s fervor and brotherhood,” Mr. Abuhilalah added.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz shared a screenshot of Mr. Abuhilalah’s post on his account and called out U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who has been pushing for a ceasefire amid the crisis in Gaza.
“Look surprised, the Palestinians fabricate stories of rape to incite anti Semitism. @antonioguterres I’m sure that’s sad for you to hear, but that’s the reality,” Mr. Katz stated on X.
Previously, Mr. Katz said that the United Nations has become an “antisemitic and anti-Israel body that shelters and emboldens terror” under the leadership of Mr. Guterres.
His remarks came as the UN chief visited Gaza’s border last week. Mr. Guterres stated on X on March 24 that “nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.”
While Iran acts as Hamas’ main patron for military training and support, Qatar provides the infrastructure to spread anti-Israel propaganda, which is mainly done through Al Jazeera, he said.
“Through the Al Jazeera network, Qatar spreads narratives that demonize and delegitimize Israel, and justify terrorism, thereby supporting Hamas in its efforts,” he added.
