In a move aimed at encouraging restraint and responsibility in news broadcasting, the News Broadcasters Federation (NBF) on Friday issued a strong editorial advisory to all TV news editors, asking them to refrain from using the phrase ‘War Breaking’ in headlines, captions, or on-screen graphics.
The advisory, issued amidst heightened tensions in the region, stated that such terminology risks creating “unnecessary panic,” misrepresents the actual situation on the ground, and could be seen as “sensationalist or irresponsible journalism.”
“All editors are strongly advised to refrain from using ‘War Breaking’ as a headline, caption, or on-screen graphic,” the advisory reads. “Such terminology can create unnecessary panic, misrepresent the situation, and may be construed as sensationalist or irresponsible journalism, and especially does not reflect the tone expected, during sensitive national security developments.”
The NBF urged broadcasters to ensure that all visual cues, graphics, and language used during coverage remain measured, factual, and based strictly on verified official information.
This development comes at a time when the role of television media is under increasing scrutiny for its influence on public perception, especially during times of national tension. The advisory is a reminder to newsrooms to maintain editorial maturity and avoid dramatizing sensitive situations.