Reactions Erupt Over Trump Envoy’s Insult to Journalists in Lebanon
The backlash inside and outside Lebanon continues following the disrespectful and undiplomatic conduct of the U.S. Special Envoy to Lebanon,Tom Barrack,toward journalists.
Lebanon’s Presidency Office Justifies Barrack’s Insult as Unintentional
Lebanon’s Presidency Office attempted to justify the insulting remarks made by U.S. Special envoy Tom Barrack toward journalists during a press conference at the Presidential Palace in Beirut. The office described his behavior as “unintentional” and expressed regret over the incident.
According to an official statement, the Presidency Office regretted “the unintentional remarks made by one of today’s guests at the presidential headquarters.”
The statement stressed “absolute respect for human dignity” and acknowledged ”the efforts and dedication of all reputable journalists and media representatives in fulfilling their professional and national duties.”
Lebanese Photographers Union: Barrack Must Apologize
The Lebanese Press Photographers Union issued a statement declaring that what happened at the Presidential Palace constitutes a risky precedent-an outright insult directed at several Lebanese journalists and photographers-and is completely unacceptable.
The union emphasized: “The press covering government officials’ activities performs its role professionally with respect for public opinion and citizens’ right to access information. These practices are integral parts of democratic traditions worldwide.”
the union added: “Attacks on media personnel are not trivial matters,nor can they be justified under any pretext-especially given that this occurrence marks a shocking first event in this manner representing an assault on Lebanon’s press status and its self-reliant oversight role.”
The organization insisted that “a prompt public apology to all harassed journalists and media specialists is a minimal necessary step. Any attempt to downplay or ignore this incident without accountability will face resolute rejection from Lebanon’s entire journalistic community, escalating tensions further.”
It also stated: ”The press is no enemy; it is a partner in uncovering truth and defending public interest. Any insult directed against it undermines both the right of Lebanese citizens to be informed وand damages government credibility.”
The union demanded “an official apology along with clear measures protecting journalistic dignity while preventing any recurrence of such insults in any form.”
