Publishing names and images in connection with allegations of war crimes, particularly those that are not thoroughly verified, is increasingly jeopardizing individuals’ safety and eroding trust in journalism. The danger of this practice was highlighted in a recent case involving a German-Israeli IDF sniper who has taken legal action against The Guardian and various German media outlets for allegedly misidentifying him and disseminating his personal information. This revelation has resulted in a surge of online threats, underscoring the serious implications of such reporting.
Mathilda Heller reported that the controversy stems from a Guardian investigation that implicated an IDF sniper, known only as “C.,” of involvement in the deaths of unarmed civilians in November 2023. This information was reportedly based on statements from a Palestinian journalist and activist, Younis Tirawi, and was subsequently amplified by major German media, including Der Spiegel and ZDF.
The critical issue arises when news organizations link specific individuals to serious allegations without solid evidence. In this instance, The Guardian named “C.’s” alleged partner, referred to as “G.,” published his full name and photo without adequate verification, according to Heller’s findings. Lawyer Joachim Nikolaus Steinhöfel, representing “G.,” emphasized that the allegations are unfounded, stating, “The whole article is about my client, who wasn’t even there.” This incident exemplifies a significant failure in editorial responsibility.
Despite The Guardian’s agreement to retract the name and image after receiving a cease-and-desist letter, the harm had already propagated across social media platforms and other news outlets. The rapid dissemination of such information often leads to threats and real-life consequences for the individuals involved, further complicating matters for human-rights organizations and law enforcement, who may feel pressured to act based on unverified claims.
While some journalists argue that naming individuals is crucial for accountability, such claims demand a higher verification threshold than standard political reporting. Journalism ethics explicitly warn against the potential ramifications of unsubstantiated allegations. The Society of Professional Journalists advises media practitioners to consider the long-term impact of their reporting, while the Independent Press Standards Organization’s Editors’ Code underscores the responsibility of the press to avoid publishing misleading information.
Editors have a crucial role to play in correcting this approach. They can impose stricter identity verification processes that align with the seriousness of allegations and prioritize the “right of reply.” Additionally, they can ensure that corrections are highlighted prominently, as quiet edits do not carry the same weight as the original accusations.
This situation poses significant security concerns, not just for the individuals named, but for Israeli and Jewish communities worldwide. When a soldier’s identity is revealed, the repercussions can extend to neighborhoods, workplaces, and places of worship. As demonstrated in Heller’s report, the ramifications transcend the battlefield, affecting lives in local communities everywhere. This ongoing challenge underscores the pressing need for robust journalistic standards that prioritize the safety and dignity of individuals while maintaining the integrity of investigative reporting.