Rupert Murdoch has apologised for criticising the 'Jewish-owned press' in series of incendiary tweets about the current fighting in the Middle East.

The controversial billionaire media mogul did not back down completely, however, insisting he did not understand why his critics were so outraged by his messages accusing the media of anti-Israel bias.

He tweeted on Sunday: '"Jewish owned press" have been sternly criticised, suggesting link to Jewish reporters. Don't see this, but apologise unreservedly.'