Former MSNBC Host's Zeteo Airs Gaza Doctor Doc BBC Rejected

A documentary titled "Gaza: Doctors Under Attack," produced by Basement Films, is being globally released by journalist Mehdi Hasan's media startup Zeteo. The film showcases the work of Palestinian doctors in Gaza amid wartime conditions. The decision to release the documentary came after the BBC chose not to broadcast it, leading Zeteo to acquire the rights for global distribution.

Zeteo, founded by Mehdi Hasan in 2024 to promote underreported stories and independent journalism, sees the acquisition of the documentary as a move to support editorial independence. The decision to release the film globally today follows delays and the BBC's final withdrawal from the project.

The BBC's decision to pull out of the documentary came after concerns about potential bias were raised during a review of another Gaza-related film. Despite Basement Films claiming that the BBC initially approved the documentary, the network disputed this. Following the BBC's withdrawal, over 600 members of the film industry, including Susan Sarandon and Mike Leigh, criticized the BBC for silencing Palestinian voices.

The conflict in Gaza, triggered by an attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, has drawn global attention due to its impact on civilians. The Israeli military campaign in Gaza has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread destruction. Concerns have been raised about the safety of civilians, particularly healthcare workers and aid providers operating in challenging conditions.

Hospitals in Gaza have been severely affected, with many being damaged or destroyed. Medical professionals are facing shortages of essential resources and protection while treating patients. Basement Films reported that over 200 Palestinian colleagues and partners have lost their lives in Gaza since the conflict began.

Mehdi Hasan, a former MSNBC host, established Zeteo as a subscriber-supported media platform after leaving the network. The Gaza documentary will be available for streaming to Zeteo's paid subscribers starting today at 5 p.m. ET. In the UK, the documentary will be aired on Channel 4. Basement Films expressed gratitude to Zeteo and Channel 4 for enabling the film to reach a wider audience and honoring the stories of the doctors and medics in Gaza.