BBC stands by decision to interview retired general who referred to Oct 7 attacks as ‘month of victory’

BBC Arabic under fire for hosting controversial guest multiple times

BBC Arabic is facing criticism for repeatedly hosting a controversial guest, retired Egyptian general Hossam Ragheb, on its programs. According to analysis by the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis (Camera), Ragheb has appeared on the broadcaster’s show nine times, with eight of those appearances focusing on “strictly Israel-related issues.”

The ninth appearance, according to Camera, was a broader overview of Egypt’s strategy and its relations with neighboring countries. However, Ragheb’s past social media posts have raised concerns about his views on sensitive topics.

In a Facebook post on October 7, Ragheb praised the defeat of a military that had not been defeated in half a century, calling it a “military miracle.” He has also shared links to download anti-Semitic material and questioned the Holocaust, claiming that questioning it is not allowed in the West because of manipulation by certain groups.

Critics, including the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism, have accused BBC Arabic of courting controversy by giving a platform to individuals with extreme views. They argue that hosting guests like Ragheb, who have expressed support for violence against Jews and spread anti-Semitic conspiracy theories, goes against the principles of accurate and balanced journalism.

The discovery of Ragheb’s controversial views comes after BBC Arabic was criticized for interviewing a commentator who was jailed for his involvement in the murder of an Israeli, without disclosing his conviction. The repeated appearances of such controversial figures on the broadcaster’s programs have raised concerns about the editorial standards and impartiality of BBC Arabic.