In response to the Israeli government's inquiry, The New York Times, CNN, Associated Press (AP), and Reuters have all denied having prior knowledge of the October 7 Hamas attack. The Israeli media watchdog, HonestReporting.com, had alleged that photojournalists from these outlets were present with Hamas militants during the attack.

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office criticized the journalists, stating, 'These journalists were accomplices in crimes against humanity; their actions were contrary to professional ethics.' The government issued an urgent letter to the media organizations, seeking clarifications and immediate action.

The AP and CNN confirmed severing ties with freelance photographer Hassan Eslaiah, identified in the report as being with Hamas militants during the attack. Both outlets asserted they had no prior knowledge of the attack. Reuters categorically denied having prior knowledge and refuted claims of embedding journalists with Hamas on October 7. The New York Times defended photographer Yousef Massoud, mentioned in the report, stating there was no evidence supporting the allegations and that he was documenting the tragedy as it unfolded.