CBS News is under fire for a controversial memo instructing journalists not to refer to Jerusalem as part of Israel, sparking backlash and raising concerns about journalistic integrity. The memo, sent by CBS News senior director of standards Mark Memmott, emphasized Jerusalem’s disputed status despite US recognition of it as Israel’s capital.
Internal tensions were further fueled by an interview on anti-Israel perspectives by CBS Mornings co-host Tony Dokoupil, leading to controversy within and outside CBS. The directive advised against stating Jerusalem is in Israel, citing its central role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Backlash ensued
Social media and journalists criticized the memo, with some accusing CBS of denying reality. The US officially recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 1995 and former President Trump solidified this in 2017. CBS News has yet to respond to the controversy.
The issue reflects broader internal tensions at CBS News, exemplified by Dokoupil’s interview with journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates. The interview sparked further controversy, leading to internal discussions about how Jewish issues are handled.