According to this article in the New York Times last week, Iraq is supposedly cracking down on “Iran-backed Shiite militias.” But there’s no evidence in the actual piece to backup that juicy headline.

New York city based journalist Amel Ahmed tweeted a response to this by Professor Michael Brenner:

The New York Times headline bore almost no connection to the story’s content. Its main assertion certainly was not confirmed. I doubt this was an accident. It has been a feature of the Times’ coverage of Iran on the nuclear issue as well. Moreover, these Iran stories there and elsewhere are a striking example of reporters setting aside their critical minds, and duty to their readers, in swallowing whatever is offered them by official sources. “And Iran is behind it” has become a tag-on to government statements about all troubles in the region – whether Lebanon, Bahrain, Syria, Iraq or Afghanistan. It is almost like a nervous tick. Journalists have a responsibility to do do more than nod their heads in unison.

Well said.