Opposition MK Defends Broadcaster Amid Criticism Over Interview Style

Member of Knesset Vladimir Beliak of the opposition responded Sunday to controversy surrounding broadcaster Guy Peleg's interviews with Shaked Murg on 103FM radio. Beliak acknowledged that Peleg's remarks could be perceived as harsh or bullying, but argued that Murg's opportunity to speak should not be overlooked.

Beliak recounted hearing Murg for the first time about three months prior during a broadcast with Peleg. He sent Peleg a message praising Murg as a "hero" for speaking despite her stutter. Peleg read the message on air, which Beliak said was very meaningful for Murg.

Beliak explained that people who stutter often struggle to get a fair chance to voice their opinions, especially in media. "Yes, Guy's monologue that was published did not sound good. It was even hard to listen to, and one can understand why people felt there was bullying in it," Beliak wrote, but immediately presented the other side.

"Guy does a tremendous thing again and again on the air: he insists on letting Shaked speak. Insists she be heard. Insists she gain confidence and progress," Beliak added. He noted that approximately 100,000 people in Israel stutter and rarely get airtime.

According to Beliak, stutterers do not seek pity or special treatment, but rather an opportunity, patience, and a few extra seconds to finish their sentences. He concluded by comparing Peleg's belief in Murg to how Yair Lapid believed in him and Daphna Liel chose to publish his story, stating, "And this, in my opinion, is the only thing that really matters in this story."