Khaza Stands by Fired Journalist Peter Lalor

Dhaka: Peter Lalor, an Australian radio journalist with SEN Radio, had voiced support for the Palestinian people in an Instagram post. While providing commentary during the Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka, he received a call informing him that he had been fired for his 'politically incorrect actions.' Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has expressed his regret over the incident.

Khawaja, the star Australian batter, took to Instagram to defend Lalor, thanking him for speaking up for the Palestinian people. He also addressed the radio network, clarifying that Lalor's comments were not anti-Semitic but were directed at Israeli occupation and oppression.

In his statement, Lalor revealed that he was initially told by his employer that serious complaints had been lodged against him. Later, he was told that his post was misinterpreted and accused of anti-Semitism, which he strongly denied. He was also informed that his retweets were deemed unbalanced and insensitive, following numerous complaints. Eventually, Lalor was informed that he had lost his job.

Usman Khawaja, who was the hero in Australia's Test win over Sri Lanka, spoke out on Instagram: “Standing up for the people of Gaza is not anti-Semitic. It has nothing to do with my Jewish brothers and sisters in Australia. It was about standing against the Israeli government and their deplorable actions. It’s about justice and human rights. Unfortunately, hate towards both Jewish and Muslim communities has always existed. Peter is a kind-hearted, good person, and he deserves better.”