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A Day of Terror, A Day of Headline Fails

More Palestinian terror attacks mean more screwy headlines. Context and accuracy took a hit. Without question, today’s worst headline was served up by the Irish Times. For readers who initially wrote us about this screwy…

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More Palestinian terror attacks mean more screwy headlines. Context and accuracy took a hit.

Without question, today’s worst headline was served up by the Irish Times.

Irish Times

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For readers who initially wrote us about this screwy Associated Press header (cached version), the wire service subsequently updated the headline.

Most papers around the world updated their AP wire copy accordingly.

EstrinOLD

EstrinNEW

 

Unfortunately, the Philadelphia Inquirer decided there was no room for context.

Philadelphia Inquirer

 

Then there was this unfortunate headline in Australia’s News.com.au. I’m not clear whether to blame the web site or the Australian Associated Press, which is independent of AP.

AAP

 

There was a doubt BBC News and Newsweek that Palestinians even initiated the attacks. Both headlines are willing to accept Israeli confirmation that the Palestinians were killed, but not the reason for it. Hence the quote marks.

BBC

Newsweek

Last, but not least, there’s headline/subhead combination at The Guardian. The fact that Palestinians initiated the attack is “alleged” while the words “though no soldiers were hurt” implies Israeli security forces didn’t really need to defend themselves. Which raises the question: Is self-defense only legitimate if Israelis are injured first?

The Guardian

 

If you spot other headline fails, you can send us your tips through our Red Alert Page.

 

 

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