ABC Investigates Claims Taxpayer Funds Hired Alleged Hamas Member
The Australian broadcaster is probing allegations that a freelance videographer killed in Gaza, who previously provided footage to its 7.30 program, had links to Hamas.
The ABC is investigating allegations that a Gaza-based freelancer who provided footage to its 7.30 program had links to Hamas. Executives told a Senate estimates hearing they are seeking further evidence from Israeli authorities before drawing conclusions, with ABC editorial director Gavin Fang stating the broadcaster takes the allegations "very seriously."
Fang confirmed he had approached the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for further information regarding freelance videographer Roshdi Sarraj, 31, who was killed in Gaza on October 22, 2023. Sarraj's death in an Israeli air strike was previously eulogized by 7.30 host Sarah Ferguson, who sent condolences to his family and described him as a "brave" and "excellent journalist."
The claims surfaced after The Australian reported that Sarraj was among media workers killed in Gaza whom the IDF alleges were connected to Hamas.
When questioned by Liberal senator Sarah Henderson about the ABC's investigation, Fang replied, "Yes, absolutely." He added that the ABC had requested clarification from the IDF but had not yet received evidence to support the claims. "We have asked for further evidence from the IDF, and until we are able to find something that goes to the veracity of that claim, I don't think it's incumbent on us to make a decision, to declare that that person was a member of Hamas," Fang stated.
Senator Henderson pressed ABC managing director Hugh Marks on the broadcaster's safeguards for vetting journalists and media companies in Gaza. Marks explained that the majority of the ABC's reporting is produced by permanent staff. "On occasion we will hire stringers. These are often people that facilitate our access to or use of facilities in these places," he said, clarifying that they are "not necessarily providing journalism or influencing editorial."
Marks emphasized that "long-standing and proven ABC-verified journalists" produce the vast majority of editorial content. He acknowledged that in areas with restricted access, like Gaza, the ABC sometimes relies on local contractors for footage and logistical support. "We go through a vigorous process to ensure that we vet everything that is delivered to the ABC," Marks stated, adding that the specific allegation concerning Sarraj is being taken "very seriously" and is subject to verification.
Senator Henderson noted that the IDF had published information allegedly linking Sarraj to Hamas and asked when the ABC had sought clarification. Marks replied that this occurred within the past couple of weeks, though he could not provide the exact date. He also addressed whether the ABC had reviewed a Committee to Protect Journalists list including individuals the IDF claims were Hamas operatives. Marks confirmed the issue had been discussed with the organization but could not confirm if every name was individually checked. He stated he would take on notice the question of whether the ABC had cross-checked the list to ensure no direct or indirect engagement with named individuals.
