MSF faces criticism over alleged bias and handling of antisemitism claims

On Oct. 17, 2023, a deadly blast in the parking area of Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza prompted MSF to publish an X post labeling the event a "massacre" by Israel, a claim later challenged by satellite and forensic analyses suggesting a wayward Hamas or Islamic Jihad rocket. Three years on, the post remains online. A new EiGHT investigation, drawing on statements from more than 70 current and former employees of nine NGOs, highlights methodological shortcomings, punitive actions toward staff who raised concerns, and persistent antisemitic attitudes within MSF.

Witnesses describe antisemitic remarks circulating on the organization’s internal “Souk” platform, with some senior figures contributing to the discourse. Leadership has reportedly failed to publicly denounce these messages, and past internal solidarity messages have been unevenly applied, favoring certain victim groups over Jewish staff. MSF’s response to the report acknowledges the danger of antisemitism but offers only generic assurances, prompting calls for deeper self-examination.