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Washington Post Removes Controversial Anti-Hamas Cartoon, Apologizes Amidst Racism Accusations

Washington Post admits 'missed something profound, divisive' as backlash grows over cartoon accused of promoting racist stereotypes against Palestinians.

  • The Washington Post removed a controversial cartoon that depicted a Hamas spokesperson using civilians as human shields, after backlash accusing it of promoting racist stereotypes against Palestinians.
  • The cartoon, by Michael Ramirez, was featured in the print edition and online and was criticised for its 'dehumanizing' depiction of Palestinian people and for employing racial stereotypes.
  • The decision to remove the cartoon and issue an apology was made after intense pressure and discussion among the Post's staff, with Executive Editor Sally Buzbee sending an email addressing the 'deep concerns' raised.
  • There was a mixed response from the public, with some accusing the paper of irresponsibly perpetuating racism and others commending the cartoon for its depiction of Hamas using Palestinian civilians as human shields.
  • This is not the first time that the Post has faced criticism for its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war, including accusations of watering down rhetoric from pro-Hamas supporters and their use of numbers from the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.
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