By now you know that Hamas has committed a violent attack against Israel and that Israel has declared war in retaliation. Many lives have already been lost; to say the situation is tragic would be an understatement. 

As the latest developments in this decades-long (or centuries-long, depending on your perspective) conflict unfold, every word we use takes on a higher importance. When referring to Hamas, for instance, many among us are certain that “terrorist” is the perfect way to describe members of the group. But you may have noticed the news media using the word “militant” instead. Understandably, the distinction can be confusing and even infuriating.

In a recent Instagram live interview with the Wall Street Journal‘s deputy bureau chief for the Middle East and North Africa, Shayndi Raice, Katie asked for advice on which word to use. They had an illuminating conversation about the true meaning of the word “militant” and why the use of the word “militant” doesn’t condone Hamas’ actions.

Katie Couric: When you describe Hamas, do you use the word “terrorist” or “militant”?

Shayndi Raice: This is a tough one to answer. Most news organizations don’t use the word “terrorist” for Hamas. It’s a very fair question. 

There’s obviously an element of Hamas involved in terrorism, but [Hamas is] much bigger. It’s a political organization. There’s a political wing to Hamas. We’re trying to walk that fine line distinguishing between the terrorism and everything else that [Hamas] does.

Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization — by the United States and the European Union — because of [Hamas’] desire for the complete and utter destruction of Israel. Therein lies the rub.

We always say that in our stories. I said it at the very beginning of [this interview]. When you first mentioned Hamas, I said, “They are a dedicated terrorist organization.” I give that context always. But the standard practice in the news media is to say “militants.” Maybe there should be more discussions about that.