CNN faces backlash over inaccurate report on prisoner rescue in Syria

CNN recently faced backlash after a report, claiming the rescue of a prisoner in Syria, was revealed to be inaccurate. The prisoner, initially identified as Adel Gharbal, was claimed to be a civilian saved from a hidden prison in Damascus by CNN's Clarissa Ward and her team.

However, investigations later revealed that the man in the video was actually Salama Mohammad Salama, a former intelligence officer with the Syrian regime.

The report aired on Thursday showed the team, accompanied by an opposition fighter, uncovering the prisoner during a visit to a secret facility. The man, seen cowering under a blanket, identified himself as a civilian.

However, fact-checking by the Syrian platform Verify Sy exposed that Salama was a former lieutenant in Syrian Air Force Intelligence, notorious for his role in Homs. This was further confirmed by CNN itself after an internal investigation.

Salama, who had been detained for around three months, was believed to have been arrested over extortion charges, not for any political involvement.

Critics quickly questioned the authenticity of the report, pointing to Salama's well-maintained appearance, including his clean clothes and manicured nails, suggesting the rescue may have been staged.

In response to the criticism, CNN stated that they were unaware of Salama's true identity and had not been able to reach him for clarification before the report aired.

The incident has sparked widespread accusations against the media outlet for poor journalistic practices, with many calling for an apology for the misleading coverage.