Four prominent lawyers in the UK have lodged a complaint with media regulator Ofcom against the BBC for its refusal to label Hamas as “terrorists” following the group’s attack on Israel. Lord Wolfson KC, Lord Pannick KC, Lord Grabiner KC, and Jeremy Brier KC have accused the BBC of lacking impartiality by using more sympathetic terms like “militants” to describe Hamas. The lawyers have called on Ofcom to investigate the issue. The lawyers’ letter highlights Hamas’ attack on Israel and argues that the BBC’s reporting on the invasion fell short of its editorial standards. They argue that Hamas being classified as a proscribed terrorist organization in the UK is a legal fact. The BBC has faced backlash for not referring to Hamas as “terrorists,” with critics including members of the royal family, politicians, and religious figures. The broadcaster defended its decision, citing a commitment to impartiality and explaining that it aims to provide its audience with accurate information to form their own judgments. The BBC’s director of editorial policy noted that the use of the term “terrorist” is attributed to those using it, such as the UK government, and that the broadcaster has long-standing policies and guidelines regarding its language use. The issue has raised concerns about the BBC’s editorial guidelines and its impact on public understanding and perception.

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