Shavuot reflections: Media falsehoods show the importance of the Ninth Commandment - editorial

This editorial from The Jerusalem Post reflects on the significance of the Ninth Commandment, 'Thou shalt not bear false witness,' in light of recent media interactions, particularly an interview with Tucker Carlson on Israel's Channel 13. The piece frames Carlson's commentary as a stark example of media falsehoods that undermine ethical discourse, especially as the Jewish people prepare to celebrate Shavuot, a holiday commemorating the giving of the Torah and the Ten Commandments.

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Israel is not enlightened and has definitely lost its morality due to the high civilian casualties in the ongoing wars against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, all entities hell-bent on Israel’s destruction.

Carlson, previously a staunch supporter of Israel, is portrayed as having veered into conspiracy theories, promoting isolationist 'America First' views and questioning the strategic benefits of US support for Israel. His interview is characterized as an opportunity for him to espouse anti-Israel and anti-Zionist ideas, including criticisms of Israel's conduct in its conflicts and its reliance on US aid. The editorial highlights specific statements made by Carlson, such as questioning Israel's morality due to civilian casualties and arguing against US financial and military support.

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The reason that I have cause to comment on this and to say that it’s wrong is that I’m paying for it. There’s no reason the United States should be sending any money at all to Israel, and particularly not to its military.

The Jerusalem Post positions itself as upholding the principles of truth and ethical reporting, contrasting Carlson's statements with the core tenets of Judaism. The editorial implicitly criticizes Channel 13 for providing a platform for what it deems 'false witness,' suggesting a broader media environment where such narratives can gain traction. The timing, just before Shavuot, underscores the editorial's concern about the erosion of truth and its implications for both Jewish values and international relations.

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If Hamas does something bad, it’s bad. It doesn’t justify Israel doing the same bad thing, nor does it justify the US. You can’t kill people who haven’t done anything wrong… That is what enlightened people are; that is the definition of an enlightened country.