Controversy has emerged over a suggestion from ABC management that journalist Antoinette Lattouf should limit her social media activity following backlash regarding her views on Israel. Lattouf, of Lebanese and Arab heritage, was casually hired to host ABC Radio Sydney’s Mornings show in December 2023 but is now involved in a Federal Court case against the broadcaster.
During her testimony, she recounted a conversation with ABC Radio Sydney’s content director, Elizabeth Green, prior to her dismissal. Green mentioned receiving numerous complaints from pro-Israel lobbyists about Lattouf’s on-air presence. Lattouf expressed her belief that the complaints were unfounded, stating, “If the sky was blue, they’d probably have a problem with it.” Furthermore, she contested the idea of abstaining from posting on social media, emphasizing the importance of sharing factual information about tragic events, such as those in Gaza.
The core issue in the case revolves around whether Lattouf was explicitly instructed not to post on social media. While the ABC claims her dismissal followed a breach of policy, Lattouf maintains there were no clear directives. She argues her termination was unjust and influenced by her political opinions and ethnicity, asserting that such selective enforcement of policies is problematic for journalists.