Beitar Jerusalem Owner Sues Israeli Public Broadcaster for $275,000

Beitar Jerusalem owner and Japnicka restaurant chain owner Barak Abramov has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking NIS 1 million (approximately $275,000) against the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC).

The lawsuit, filed in Jerusalem Magistrate's Court, stems from publications by the IPBC that Abramov claims falsely linked him and his businesses to the Jarushi crime family. Abramov asserts that these publications were made without adequate investigation and have severely damaged his reputation and business operations.

Abramov's legal action follows earlier warning letters sent to media outlets in July concerning reports about his alleged ties to crime families. The core of the current lawsuit focuses on claims that members of the Jarushi family received franchises for Japnicka branches, thereby integrating them into his businesses. Abramov vehemently denies these allegations, stating the family never held ownership, partnership, or any significant presence in the chain.

Represented by his attorney, Haim Pitzhon, Abramov argues the reports are false and damaging, published without proper due diligence. The controversy arose amidst a series of attacks on Japnicka branches and investigations into disputes between crime families. Abramov previously stated in an interview that his acquaintance with Jarushi family members was superficial and lacked any business connection, inviting police to investigate him if they suspected wrongdoing.

He further claimed that law enforcement is aware of his businesses' legitimacy and that some branches even received security during the period of attacks. Abramov is now seeking NIS 1 million in damages from the IPBC for the harm caused by the publications.