Russian state channel publishes reports about “war criminal Netanyahu” and “Hamas – resistance fighters”, Israeli Embassy in Russia responds with accusations of anti-Semitism

The Russian state TV channel RT has once again found itself at the center of an international scandal. On the day of mourning for the victims of the terrorist attack on February 20, 2025, RT published a post on its social media, using Hamas rhetoric and accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of war crimes.

Facts: What Was Published

RT’s post in social media claimed that “Hamas carries four coffins, including those with small children, killed by the war criminal Netanyahu”. This statement was made against the backdrop of the return of the bodies of Israeli hostages who had been kidnapped by terrorists more than 500 days ago. The post also mentioned “trophies” — rifles that were allegedly in the hands of Hamas fighters, calling them “resistance fighters,” essentially equating terrorists with heroes – “Trophies – TAR-21 rifles in the hands of resistance fighters in Gaza”.

Israel’s Reaction

In response to this post, Israel’s ambassador, Simona Galperin, expressed strong condemnation, calling the publication not only unprofessional but also openly anti-Semitic. According to her, the person who posted this message showed not only a complete lack of professionalism but also deep disrespect for the memory of the deceased, as well as anti-Semitism and malice.

The ambassador emphasized: “The person who posted this false message demonstrated not only a total lack of professionalism but also anti-Semitism, as well as pure malice. We expect the channel to take immediate action to correct the damage done to its reputation.”

“Today, all of Israel mourns the hostages who died, whose bodies were returned to their families after more than 500 days of being kidnapped. There is no limit to the cruelty and cynicism of Hamas, which they once again demonstrated by staging a performance over human grief,” said Israel’s ambassador Simona Galperin. She emphasized that RT, on this mournful day, deemed it appropriate to post an offensive and false post on their social media.

Details of Hostage Transfer

The process of returning the bodies of Israeli hostages who were killed during Hamas attacks attracted global attention. Hamas once again organized a “show,” displaying coffins with the deceased, including children and the elderly, and holding a ceremony where attendees “celebrated” the death of Israeli citizens. This show was accompanied by footage in which even children became part of this horrific spectacle.

The scenario was set up in such a way as to remind the world of the cruelty of the terrorists and how they manipulate even pain and suffering. During the ceremony, freed criminals were present, and the entire situation became a shocking testimony to cynicism and soullessness. The “Red Cross” also expressed protest regarding how the process unfolded, showing that even international humanitarian organizations cannot ignore such cruelty.

Corrections, but Terrorists Remain Heroes

After Israel’s and the international community’s strong reaction, RT deleted its post about the “war criminal Netanyahu” and also removed the second post about “resistance fighters.” However, despite these corrections, the fact that Hamas rhetoric was used, equating terrorists to heroes and supporting them, remains. In response, Ambassador Simona Galperin expressed regret that such a level media outlet like RT disregarded the feelings of the victims and common sense.

Intentional Support of Hamas

It is worth noting that RT, as a state-run Russian TV channel, was likely acting with the intention of pleasing Hamas and strengthening its relationship with the terrorist organization. In the face of international isolation and pressure, Russia continues to use propaganda channels to maintain its political course, justifying violence and terrorism, and supporting regimes that serve as beneficial allies to the Kremlin.

Support for Terrorists Is Unacceptable

The actions of the Russian TV channel RT and similar media outlets using the rhetoric of terrorist organizations are unacceptable and should be condemned at the international level. When media outlets use lies and manipulate facts to justify violence and terrorism, it leads to the aggravation of conflicts and the incitement of hatred. In this case, RT not only distorted the events but also tried to present terrorists in a better light, which is part of Russia’s propaganda strategy.

Media channels that support terrorists pose a threat not only to security but also to international stability. It is crucial that the global community condemns such actions and holds accountable those spreading false and dangerous statements.

This case once again emphasizes the importance of fighting disinformation and upholding justice. Israel, despite the pressure and threats, continues to defend its people and fight terrorists, and the international community must continue to condemn the actions of propagandists like RT.

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