This page hosts daily news stories about the media, social media, and journalism industry. Get the latest Hirings and Firings, Media Transactions, Controversies, and more.
RSF Condemns Israeli Strike That Killed Al Jazeera Journalist Hossam Shabat
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has strongly condemned the Israeli military for a targeted airstrike that killed Al Jazeera journalist Hossam Shabat in Gaza. RSF had previously warned that Shabat and colleagues were at high risk of assassination. The organization emphasized that Israeli accusations from October 2024 lacked concrete evidence linking Shabat to military activity, and do not justify his death. RSF cited a broader trend of journalist killings in Gaza, with nearly 200 deaths over 15 months, including 43 reportedly targeted on duty. The group reiterated calls for international pressure on Israel to protect journalists and end the “media blackout” in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories. (Read More) (Reporters Without Borders Rating)
Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump-Backed Effort to Defund Radio Free Europe
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order blocking Kari Lake and the Trump administration from halting funding to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth ruled that the move likely violated legal mandates requiring continued support for the broadcaster, which is overseen by the U.S. Agency for Global Media. Although the Justice Department said a $7.4 million disbursement had already occurred, RFE/RL argued the network would still face layoffs and potential shutdown without long-term funding. The judge stressed RFE/RL’s importance as a source of trusted news for audiences facing authoritarian media environments. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)
UK News Agency Pulls AI-Generated Fake Videos Amid Viewer Backlash
Newsflare, a UK-based video licensing agency, has removed several AI-generated fake videos it had distributed, including a viral clip showing a kitten in a nest of owls, which drew 7.8 million Facebook views. While that video now carries an AI disclaimer, others were fully withdrawn after public complaints and backlash. The agency, which supplies content to major outlets like the BBC and New York Times, reaffirmed its policy requiring clear labeling of AI-generated material. Newsflare said it has tightened its vetting process in response to growing AI content. The incident reflects rising concerns over misinformation and the role of AI in media. (Read More) (Press Gazette Rating)
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