CNN Responds To Backlash On Twitter By Deleting Tweet

By Fred Maxwell
Published June 9, 2016 at 2:44pm
Modified April 13, 2018 at 9:35am

Following the deadly terrorist attack in Tel Aviv Wednesday, CNN posted a tweet, which was met with disapproval and criticism.

CNN’s original tweet read: ‘Two “terrorists” captured after Tel Aviv attack, Israeli police spokesperson tweets.’

CNN used scare quotations around “terrorists,” seemingly calling into question whether the act was really terrorism. One Twitter user called the use of these particular punctuation marks a “horribly insensitive” decision.

Many commented using scare quotes of their own to show their displeasure with CNN’s tweet. “No surprises here. The ‘news’ site,” one user wrote.

Another posted to Twitter, “your ‘reporting’ is useless.”

After receiving dozens of negative responses, CNN deleted the original tweet and replaced it, stating that the attack was “undoubtedly” an act of terrorism.

A previous – now removed – tweet appeared to call into question the Tel Aviv attack as an act of terrorism. It undoubtedly was.

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) June 9, 2016

Although CNN replaced the original tweet, some still called into question their objectivity. One person tweeted:

@cnnbrk we still call into question, though, your ability to tweet the news objectively.

— AllyChat (@AllyGeighter) June 9, 2016

CBS News reported the attack, which occurred Wednesday night close to an open air market and claimed the life of four Israeli individuals. At least five others were wounded.

Israeli police were successful in detaining the attackers.

Pat Milton, senior investigative reporter for CBS News reported a source as saying the suspects were dressed like ultra-Orthodox Jews, in long black coats and black top hats.

After being notified of the attack, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with his defense minister and security leaders. He issued a statement calling the attack a “cold blooded murder by despicable terrorists.”

A source from the State Department confirmed that no one from the United States was injured in the attack.

We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.

Submit a Correction