Some unverified reports of atrocities by Israel and Hamas have spread widely. Why? | Margaret Sullivan

The problem began with dubious or insufficient sourcing and reports being accepted as the truth, which were then exaggerated on social media

As if the atrocities in the Middle East over the past month weren't terrible enough, the mainstream press has managed to make matters worse.

Too often, false or unconfirmed reporting circulated widely, including on some of the biggest, most prestigious platforms in the world.

Margaret Sullivan is a Guardian US columnist writing on media, politics and culture