Jerusalem Post columnist warns against manipulation through anonymous sources
In Israel, Jerusalem Post columnist David Ben-Bassat called on the media to scrutinize information from anonymous sources more carefully, as such leaks may be a tool of political influence. In his opinion piece, he stressed that protecting confidential informants is necessary for a free press, but anonymity should not become routine practice.
The interests of anonymous interlocutors
Ben-Bassat notes that reports citing a “senior official,” “a source familiar with the details,” or people close to a minister often do not allow the audience to assess the interlocutor’s competence and interests. Readers do not know whether that person was a direct participant in the events described and why they decided to disclose the information at that particular moment.
According to the author, politicians, advisers, security officials and other interested parties may use contacts with journalists to spread carefully worded messages. The purpose of a leak, he writes, may be to discredit a political opponent, prepare the public for a decision, pressure officials, test reactions to a certain idea, or avoid responsibility for a failure.
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Verification before publication
The author believes that a journalist should establish not only the truthfulness of the information received, but also the motives of the person who provides it. Even an accurate detail from a closed meeting, he says, can create a false impression if the source conceals other important circumstances.
Ben-Bassat also draws attention to the risk of anonymous reports rapidly spreading among media outlets, social networks and television broadcasts. In his view, editorial teams should verify information through other sources, give those who may be affected by a publication an opportunity to respond, and explain to the audience why the anonymous interlocutor deserves trust. He emphasizes: a source is a means of establishing the truth, not a substitute for it.
