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'I needed to be more careful': CNN's Sara Sidner apologizes over unverified report on 'beheaded babies'

CNN also reported separately that the Israeli government had not confirmed the claims that Hamas beheaded babies

ISRAEL: CNN reporter Sara Sidner recently found herself in the midst of controversy after making statements on a live broadcast concerning unverified claims during the Hamas-Israel conflict.

The claims in question revolved around accusations that Hamas had beheaded around 40 babies. Sidner, in her broadcast, acknowledged the lack of confirmation for these reports.

Sara Sidner's apology and clarification

In a public apology issued on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sidner admitted her mistake and expressed the need for greater care in her choice of words.

She stated, "Yesterday the Israeli Prime Minister's office said that it had confirmed Hamas beheaded babies & children while we were live on the air. The Israeli government now says today it CANNOT confirm babies were beheaded. I needed to be more careful with my words and I am sorry."

Sidner went on to clarify her initial statements, explaining, "The words I used were the PM's office must have proof if they are confirming this. Then President Biden confirmed seeing it. And then backed tracked."

The Israel-Hamas conflict escalated following a surprise and violent Hamas raid, leading to a robust military response by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip. The conflict was initiated by Hamas, citing the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem and the escalating violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians as reasons for their military offensive.

CNN also reported separately that the Israeli government had not confirmed the claims that Hamas beheaded babies during the attack on Saturday, October 7, citing an unnamed Israeli official.

Netizens take a dig at Sara Sidner

The incident triggered a significant backlash online, with many criticizing the reporter for her handling of the situation. A user tweeted, "damage is done." Another added, "Your sorry won't save the Palestine." 

However, one user urged civility and kindness, coming to Sidner's defense. "People don't have to be so nasty on here to Sara," the user remarked. "Unfortunately, the 'net can be a place where misjudgments are prematurely made and shared with others." 

Sidner echoed the sentiment, responding with, "I would argue we were mislead. I am going to report on what heads of governments say. That is what news organizations do. It doesn’t mean it’s true, but it’s news; they said it and had to retract it. In that same report, I noted Hamas denied the acts."

"You caused immeasurable damage with this sloppy reporting. "Sorry, bro" doesn't cut it," read a tweet. "I didn’t mean to make a wild fire Sorry," stated a user.