ASFI CALLS FOR GREATER ACCURACY AND CLARITY IN JTA COVERAGE OF TERRORIST ATTACKS

ASFI | Sept 24, 2026

NEW YORK, NY — Americans For A Safe Israel (AFSI) today issued a statement urging the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) to review its editorial terminology following its coverage of the recent car-ramming attack in Samaria. The September 23, 2026 JTA report detailed the incident in which Neria Leiter, an IDF reservist and the son of Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, was seriously injured.

While AFSI appreciates the JTA’s timely reporting on this attack, the organization notes with concern the decision to refer to the perpetrator exclusively as an “assailant” and “driver,” rather than utilizing the precise term “terrorist.” Given that the perpetrator deliberately drove a vehicle into a police-IDF patrol checkpoint with the clear intent to commit mass murder, AFSI firmly believes that clear, unambiguous language is necessary to properly convey the nature of such politically motivated violence.

“We deeply respect the essential role that the JTA plays in informing the global Jewish community,” said Moshe Phillips, chairman of Americans For A Safe Israel. “However, in moments of clear-cut violence directed at those defending Israel, avoiding the term ‘terrorist’ can inadvertently soften the reality of the threats faced by Israelis every day. We ask the JTA editorial team to ensure their terminology reflects the gravity of these acts of terrorism.”

AFSI also noted that the numerous Jewish federations across the United States, which have been committed to helping subsidize and sustain the JTA for generations, place a high premium on objective, accurate reporting. Instances that appear to minimize the nature of Arab terrorism remain a point of concern for community stakeholders who look to the JTA for reliable news coverage of Israel.

AFSI joins the global Jewish community in praying for a complete and speedy recovery for Neria Leiter, and expresses its deepest solidarity with the Leiter family during this incredibly difficult time.

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About Americans For A Safe Israel:
Established in 1970, Americans For a Safe Israel (AFSI) is one of the oldest and most influential pro-Israel organizations in the United States. Its advocacy and educational campaigns serve as a potent counterweight to the rising tide of anti-Israel propaganda. AFSI is not affiliated with any political party in the United States or Israel. AFSI’s website is www.afsi.org.