Earlier this week, HonestReporting alerted readers about a letter published in the Watertown Daily Times accusing Israel of manipulating American foreign policy. The paper’s editor initially defended the letter, which was full of conspiracy theories and unsubstantiated facts, claiming – unbelievably – that “a rational defense to the letter’s points can be made.”
The letter accused Israel of manipulating the US to overthrow Saddam Hussein and to intervene in Syria, among other accusations. But after hearing from a substantial number of HR readers, the paper admitted its error:
Linking these acts with lobbying efforts on behalf of Israel alarmed many readers. An organization called HonestReporting criticized the points made in the letter and questioned why we published it. We have received numerous emails opposing the letter appearing in print and online.
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We made a mistake in publishing the letter as it was written and did not do a sufficient job in evaluating the claims it made. While we remain committed to the publication of opinions, particularly unpopular ones, we resolve to do better in determining the credibility of information in letters stated to be factually accurate.
Indeed, editors quoted several emails they received from HR readers. The emails offered sharp rebuttals to the offensive letter, showing editors that a “rational defense” of the letter was not, in fact, possible.
HonestReporting thanks all those who wrote to the Watertown Daily Times to respond to the publication of anti-Semitic material. The result proves yet again that when we act together, we can make a difference.
