Fauci Diaries Blast Markson's 'Nonsense' Covid Lab-Leak Claims

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former top US infectious disease official, took aim at News Corp journalist Sharri Markson in his recently released pandemic-era diaries, describing her reporting on the origins of Covid-19 as a "bunch of nonsense." The diaries, published ahead of Fauci's contentious Senate hearing with Republican Senator Rand Paul, reveal Fauci's critique of Markson's 2021 article in The Australian and her book "What Really Happened in Wuhan," which promote the lab leak theory.

Fauci's Diary Entries Criticize Markson's Reporting

In his private diary entry dated May 7, 2021, Fauci wrote that Markson's exclusive report in The Australian "does not make any sense." The article claimed Chinese military scientists discussed weaponizing coronaviruses years before the pandemic. Fauci questioned the logic, stating, "Why would someone want to make an agent that could equally infect your own population. Something is wrong with this report." He noted he would follow up on the matter. Guardian Australia later revealed that the document cited in the article was based on a discredited 2015 book containing conspiracy theories.

Background on the Lab Leak Controversy

The lab leak theory posits that Covid-19 originated from a release from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Markson has been a prominent advocate of this theory. Her book, "What Really Happened in Wuhan," argues against a natural origin and alleges a Chinese cover-up. Fauci's diaries also reference the book, writing that the "far right continues to attack me" and calling the claims "a bunch of nonsense." He specifically mentioned criticism from molecular biologist Richard Ebright, a proponent of the lab leak theory.

Fauci's Senate Hearing and Feud with Rand Paul

The release of the diaries coincided with Fauci's appearance before a Senate hearing on Covid-19, where he was subpoenaed by Senator Rand Paul. Fauci accused Paul of an "unhinged" campaign to have him imprisoned and refused to answer questions during the hearing. Paul has long supported the lab leak theory and has been a vocal critic of Fauci's handling of the pandemic.

The diaries provide a rare glimpse into Fauci's private thoughts on the political and media battles surrounding Covid-19's origins. As the lab leak debate continues to fuel political divisions, Fauci's candid remarks underscore the deep rift between public health officials and their critics. The impact of these revelations on public perception and ongoing investigations remains to be seen.