Helen Thomas retires over anti-Israeli Jewish remarks

I don’t doubt that Feministing will be addressing this news more in-depth, but in the meantime, via NPR:

Helen Thomas, is now the 89-year old former dean of the White House press corps, after announcing that she’s “retiring” as a Hearst columnist following controversial comments in which she said Israeli Jews should return “home” to Poland and Germany and give the land back to the Palestinians.

She released an apology about her remarks:

“I deeply regret my comments I made last week regarding the Israelis and the Palestinians. They do not reflect my heart-felt belief that peace will come to the Middle East only when all parties recognize the need for mutual respect and tolerance. May that day come soon.”

I’m deeply saddened that a woman journalist who broke such incredible barriers in the field is retiring over something like this. As inappropriate and offensive as her remarks were to people, I just can’t help wondering with PunditMom about all the other newsfolks who have gotten away with the most racist, homophobic and abhorrent commentary for years without even a slap on the wrist. Adam Serwer also has a good take.
Initial thoughts? (Please be civil folks!)