Victory for Philippe Karsenty

There's much rejoicing at numerous websites over the victory for Philippe Karsenty in his suit against France 2 journalist Charles Enderlin, accused of falsifying footage of a film in order to blame Israel for the death of a young boy, Muhammed al-Dura. This passage from an article by Ed Lasky posted at American Thinker reviews the event that is causing so much jubilation:

The Palestinian version was that Israeli troops had killed a young boy, Muhammad al-Dura who was seen on the film crouching behind his father. There was a break in the film and then an image of the boy slumped over was seen. Palestinians and their supporters claimed that the Israeli troops had killed al-Dura; the cause became a cause celebre in the Arab world and played a role in stoking terrorism against Israel. In the heat of the events, the Israeli government accepted responsibility. However, after more investigation of the matter-looking at the placement of the Israeli and Palestinians, it became clear that the Israelis were too quick in accepting blame. Extended analysis made it clearer that the young boy was most probably killed by the Palestinians during the battle.

Karsenty had claimed that Enderlin and the Palestinian cameraman had faked the footage to place the blame on Israel. There were gaps in the film that was broadcast throughout the world, missing film that had been edited. Enderlin sued for libel and in the first round in France won. Karsenty appealed that verdict. The issue received a far more intensive analysis during the appeal. Today, that libel verdict was overturned.

At Covenant Zone, Truepeers offers a substantial analysis.

Augean Stables, a determined supporter of Karsenty throughout the trial, also provides numerous links both in French and English.

For background information from a February, 2005 International Herald Tribune article, click here.