Probe Into US Paid Content In Iraq Widens

IRAQ/MIDDLE EAST

COMMENTARY
Please note there are some cultural differences that make us view this story in from our own position rather than in the context it exists. In Iraq, the economics of survival means it's not uncommon for Iraqi journalists to accept gifts or cash in exchange for favorable stories. Most monthly salaries in Iraq are under $300 and Iraqi journalists don't see anything wrong with accepting 'gifts' to publish stories. Additionally from our perspective, we need to keep in mind the difference between a dictator who runs the media and controls the press -- and a free enterprise media who can decline to accept the paid stories.

NEWSBYTE
Probe into Iraq coverage widens
(USA Today) BAGHDAD — A U.S. investigation into allegations that the American military is buying positive coverage in the Iraqi media has expanded to examine a press club founded and financed by the U.S. Army. Read full story.

TENSION: Let's tell all the secrets
GRAVITY: Check your sources

Tags: current events, politics, News, terrorism, Middle East, White House, Iraq, war, journalism, mainstream media, press