Huckabee demands media retraction over fake news on Gaza aid deaths

In June 2025, U.S. officials, particularly Ambassador Mike Huckabee to Israel, criticized major news outlets like The New York Times, CNN, and the Associated Press for running unverified reports alleging that Israeli forces killed civilians in Gaza. These claims originated from the Hamas-run health ministry and were reported without adequate verification, which Huckabee stated contributed to a climate of antisemitism in the U.S. The misinformation followed reports of violence against Jewish individuals, including two deadly attacks tied to the increased tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza. The ambassador’s statements called for immediate retractions from these media outlets, emphasizing the need for responsibility in journalism. He highlighted that the false reporting exacerbated the risks for Jewish communities in America and misrepresented the events occurring in Gaza, where reliable sources, including aerial footage, countered the claims of civilian casualties. Huckabee urged the media to adhere to professional standards rather than propagate narratives that could incite violence and hatred, particularly when it comes to sensitive topics such as the relationship between Israel and the Palestinian territories. Without proper verification, these unfounded claims were deemed alarmingly reckless, inciting fears and misconceptions that could fuel further violence and unrest in the international community. The call to action sought to restore accountability in media reporting while addressing the violent aftermath instigated by misleading coverage of foreign conflicts.