Haaretz Reporter Fired After 12 Years, Cites Financial Difficulties

Merav Moran, a journalist and editor at the Israeli newspaper Haaretz for 12 years, announced her dismissal from the publication, effective October. Moran, who covered urban planning, transportation, real estate, and urban economics for Haaretz and its business supplement TheMarker, expressed shock at the decision, stating she had received consistent praise and recognition throughout her tenure. She acknowledged the newspaper's financial struggles, which were previously announced by management in July, necessitating staff reductions.

Haaretz's management had announced the need to cut coverage areas and lay off employees due to economic hardship. Following intensive negotiations with the workers' union, the number of employees to be dismissed was reduced by a third. It was agreed that up to 19 journalists would be called for hearings by mid-August 2026 under improved terms. Additionally, the positions of up to 5 employees will be reduced, and protection from further downsizing was granted until July 2027, barring exceptional circumstances.

Moran, who previously held writing and editing roles at Globes, Hadashot, Ha'Ir, and the IOL portal, shared her disappointment but also her understanding of the business realities. "A private business, if it encounters difficulties, is allowed and perhaps even better off dismissing its employees," she wrote. Despite her personal setback, Moran appealed to her followers to maintain a respectful discourse regarding the media outlet and refrain from abusive comments.

She stated that she was "a little shocked, why a little? A lot." Moran added, "I know and completely believe my excellent and beloved editors who are sad about my departure and that I will be missed from the editorial team... And this time the facts are hard to digest for me. I am sad. Very, very sad."