ABC presenter Antoinette Lattouf terminated over Israel-Hamas post

Ultimo: Antoinette Lattouf, a prominent journalist and presenter, has been dismissed from her role as a host on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) radio show, sparking public outrage.

Lattouf, of Lebanese heritage, hosted the local Mornings show for only three days before her abrupt termination, alleging external pressure influenced her dismissal based on political opinion and race.

In response, she has initiated legal action, claiming wrongful termination against the ABC, reported BBC.

Despite her belief in satisfactory performance, pro-Israel groups reportedly lobbied against Lattouf, accusing her of bias and antisemitism. The ABC refutes external influence, asserting that Lattouf violated social media guidelines by sharing a post related to the Israel-Gaza conflict from Human Rights Watch.

While emphasising impartiality and strict social media rules, the ABC justified Lattouf's dismissal for sharing a post related to the conflict. Lattouf contends that she was informed that sharing information from reputable sources like Human Rights Watch was acceptable.

Lattouf's social media post aligned with ABC's coverage of the report.

She alleges that other ABC employees also shared the post, emphasising differential treatment due to her Arab background. "The difference between them is they are white and I have an Arab background," she told BBC.

Seeking a public apology, compensation, and a return to her on-air role, Lattouf's claims are rejected by the ABC. According to the network, she was removed for refusing to comply with directions regarding controversial social media content. They maintain that she was paid for all five shifts despite being taken off-air.

Antoinette Lattouf, known for her presence on Australian airwaves and advocacy on issues like racism and mental health, previously faced criticism for social media posts on the Israel-Palestine conflict. The incident has reignited debates about the independence of Australia's public broadcaster and raised concerns about supporting culturally diverse staff under external pressures.

Human Rights Watch expressed concern to ABC Chair Ita Buttrose, finding it "troubling" that their "factual" material was deemed controversial. The media union criticised Lattouf's removal, while Minister for Industry Ed Husic defended the right to express peaceful views without risking jobs.

Graffiti appeared on ABC offices, and crowdfunding for Lattouf's legal fees has surpassed $90,000.