Early in the New Year, acclaimed journalist and former SBS news anchor Mary Kostakidis posted a statement on her X account in the hope it would bring to a close legal proceedings brought against her in the Australian Human Rights Commission by the CEO of the Zionist Federation of Australia, alleging that social media posts on Israel’s genocidal acts in Gaza allegedly violated the country’s Racial Discrimination Act.

In response the complainant, Alain Cassuto, condemned her “continuing to regularly post deeply offensive content”, stating he is “considering” his “options” in holding her to account.

The outcome of this case may well define the boundaries of what can be published about Israel, and whether reporting material that some find offensive places the journalist, and publisher, in breach of “hate speech” law. Though works of art and journalism constitute exemptions, the AHRC deems that is for a Court to decide, so the author faces a defamation-style trial. The eye-watering expense may cause some to resile from publishing material that is sure to offend a powerful litigious group.

The barbarity of Israel is condemned by most of the world as clearly shown in the UN, ICC and ICJ. However, a small but powerful lobby can bend the US and a few camp followers like Australia to its will. In 1948, Palestinians held 95% of the land. Israeli occupation........

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