The BBC has found itself at the center of controversy after abruptly cutting off live coverage of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s speech in Israel, sparking widespread outrage among viewers on social media.
Trump was addressing the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, following his involvement in brokering a landmark peace deal between Israel and Hamas an agreement that led to the release of Israeli hostages from Gaza earlier in the day. The BBC had been streaming the speech live when the feed was suddenly interrupted.
As Trump continued his remarks, the BBC presenter said, “We are watching on BBC News as the U.S. President Donald Trump gives his address to the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. It’s a momentous day in the Middle East all of the Israeli hostages are home.” Moments later, the broadcast cut to the BBC’s title sequence, ending coverage without explanation.
The move sparked an immediate backlash online. Many viewers took to X (formerly Twitter) to express frustration and disbelief. One user wrote, “Are the BBC insane? They just cut Trump’s speech mid-sentence. Shame on the BBC!” Another called the decision “truly disgraceful,” while others accused the network of censorship.
Some viewers pointed out that other channels, such as GB News, aired the full speech uninterrupted. One commenter advised, “Why are you watching the BBC? GBN had full coverage and much better commentary.” Another user remarked, “Stop watching the BBC they always pull stunts like this.”
However, a few defended the network, noting that the broadcast was likely interrupted because of scheduling commitments. Since the coverage was airing on BBC Two, the network may have cut away to switch to its regular 12:15 political program.
Earlier that morning, BBC Breakfast presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay had covered the developing news about the peace deal and the release of hostages. Their program also featured a discussion with Labour MP Hamish Falconer, who came under fire for avoiding questions about whether Labour leader Keir Starmer agreed with Trump’s declaration that the “war is over.”
Falconer dodged the question twice, refusing to comment on Starmer’s position regarding Trump’s peace deal. The exchange drew criticism online, with some viewers accusing Labour of trying to distance itself from Trump’s diplomatic success.
Trump, meanwhile, has remained outspoken about his role in the Middle East peace process. Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to Israel, he told reporters, “War is over.” His remarks came after the release of all Israeli hostages, marking a major turning point in the ongoing conflict.
The BBC has yet to release an official statement explaining the interruption, but the incident has reignited debates about media bias, editorial control, and coverage of high-profile political figures. As clips of the cut feed continue to circulate online, many are questioning whether the decision was simply a scheduling error or a deliberate editorial choice.
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