Israeli Broadcaster Guy Peleg Apologizes After On-Air Criticism of Colleague

Israeli broadcaster Guy Peleg has issued an apology after facing public backlash for his on-air criticism of his radio technician, Shaked Murg. During a live broadcast on Sunday, Peleg claimed he had never reprimanded Murg and certainly had not given her a "hearing on air," stating she is his "good friend on the radio."

Murg, who has worked at the station for about two years, addressed the media attention generated by the exchange, saying, "From a bench player, I became an attacking player. I don't know how to process the situation. It came out crooked, we are crooked people." She also thanked Peleg for the opportunity, acknowledging the difficulty she has faced as a person who stutters.

However, online reactions were largely unsupportive of Peleg's apology. Many users accused him of making Murg defend him and suggested he had more significant apologies to make, referencing past controversies such as the "100 Force" incident and the "Sde Teiman" affair. Some comments expressed disbelief, with one user stating, "It won't help you," and another suggesting Murg was cooperating out of fear.

During the original broadcast, Peleg had used soccer metaphors to criticize Murg's performance, telling her she was "disappearing" and "running away from the ball," and that she lacked leadership. He also commented on her punctuality, comparing her to professional athletes who prepare meticulously for games. Peleg urged Murg to be more proactive in the broadcast, suggesting she come prepared with insights or recommendations, but she responded that she was tired of the excessive focus on politics.