BBC news reporter quits after broadcaster refused to call Hamas ‘terrorists’
Noah Abrahams, who lives in north-west London, worked for BBC Radio as a freelancer but hung up his microphone this week in protest
A young reporter who quit the BBC this week over its reluctance to call Hamas “terrorists” has said he thinks it is only a matter of time before the national broadcaster changes tack.
Noah Abrahams, 22, who has freelanced as a sports reporter at BBC Radio Derby since 2021, said: “I’ve taken a moral stand and made a huge career decision here, but I do not agree with the stance that the BBC has taken, and don’t agree with the statement they put out.”
He said that while the Beeb had done a decent job of covering the Hamas atrocities, “they’re using the wrong terminology – and that can be dangerous and misleading… it can mean the wrong messages are spread, and I believe that they’re damaging towards my people and my community”.
Abrahams said: “Hamas are not militants, they’re not freedom fighters… You have to question the BBC. They say they’re impartial, but to not use the word ‘terrorist’ itself violates impartiality… Words are fundamentally important, and [BBC director-general] Tim Davie is ignoring the government and ministers on this.”
The Derby University graduate described the broadcaster’s decision as “out-dated and nonsensical” and said he felt the organisation would have to change its stance sooner or later. “They’ve read the room very badly. No-one is above change.”
Abrahams said he conveyed his decision to BBC Radio Derby’s sports editor, who was “very understanding and supportive”, adding that he had “received messages of support from others currently working at the BBC across the corporation”.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
