Journalist Uri Misgav Rejects Calls for Interrogation Over Netanyahu Family Reporting

Israeli journalist Uri Misgav has rejected calls to be detained and interrogated following his reporting on the movements of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family. Misgav, a reporter for the newspaper Haaretz, criticized Ronen Cohen, chairman of the committee for the protection of public figures, questioning the timing of a recent report about Yair Netanyahu's evacuation from Miami.

Misgav dismissed Cohen as an "eccentric individual" without direct ties to Shin Bet intelligence, stating that if the agency had concerns, they would approach him directly. He argued that the story about Yair Netanyahu's evacuation, which he first published in July 2023 during the judicial reform, had already been reported by Channel 12 and the Daily Mail over three years ago. Misgav suggested the renewed focus on this old story was an attempt by the Netanyahu family to deflect attention and explain why Sara Netanyahu and her children receive lifelong security, unlike other former officials.

He also linked the renewed scrutiny to ongoing legal battles he is involved in with the Netanyahu family, asserting that they have failed in all their previous attempts to silence him. Misgav defended his reporting criteria, emphasizing public interest and relevance, particularly during wartime. He stated he would not report on mundane activities like sitting in a cafe or walking a dog, but would cover events like a "casino party" in Miami while Israel is engaged in conflict.

Misgav reiterated that his intention is not to aid Iran, stating, "We in no way want the despicable Iranians to harm a single Israeli." He added that while Iranians have targeted him and his children, it is important to know what they are doing during wartime. Regarding his sources, Misgav stated that the "first rule of the source system is that you don't talk about the source system," assuring that his actions are patriotic and motivated by love for Israel.