Channel 14 and Yaakov Bardugo Fined Over Defamation

Channel 14 and commentator Yaakov Bardugo have been ordered to pay 105,000 shekels in damages following a defamation lawsuit filed by geologist Yossi Langotsky, a recipient of the Israel Security Award. The Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court partially accepted Langotsky's claim, ruling that Bardugo falsely accused him and his son of intending to harm Bardugo and his family.

The case originated in February 2023, amidst intense public debate over the judicial reform. Langotsky had warned in a radio interview that internal divisions in Israel could escalate to civil war, attributing extreme statements made at the time to speakers "stumbling over their words."

That same evening, Bardugo attacked Langotsky on Channel 14's program "Ha'Sheva." Bardugo questioned if Langotsky's son intended to shoot him, asked if Langotsky wanted to kill him, and claimed Langotsky was threatening him, his children, and his family. Bardugo also questioned why Langotsky wasn't arrested and called him an "idiot."

Langotsky sued for approximately 475,000 shekels, arguing the broadcast portrayed him as a dangerous and violent individual threatening murder, thereby severely damaging his reputation. Bardugo countered that his remarks were made in the heat of emotion and genuine fear for his life, given other public statements circulating at the time.

The court rejected Bardugo's defense, finding no factual basis for the claim that Langotsky or his son intended to harm Bardugo. Consequently, Bardugo and Channel 14 were ordered to pay Langotsky 75,000 shekels in compensation, plus 30,000 shekels for legal costs and attorney fees, totaling 105,000 shekels.