Israeli Sportscaster Sparks Outrage Over Holiday Remarks

Former Israeli soccer star and current radio host Eyal Berkovich ignited a firestorm on social media after questioning the necessity of numerous Israeli holidays, particularly the repetition of certain observances. During a live broadcast, Berkovich expressed confusion over why holidays like Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot are celebrated multiple times, asking, "I don't understand why we need so many holidays.. Why is there Rosh Hashanah twice? Sukkot twice?!"

He linked the frequency of holidays to economic concerns, stating, "Then they cry here about economic losses and lack of jobs, why aren't people working this month? I love holidays, but why is everything twice? Don't cry later that there's no money in your pocket."

Berkovich faced significant backlash for his comments. In response, he addressed his critics on Wednesday during his show on Radio 103fm. He clarified his position, suggesting that "economically and security-wise, all the holidays should be shortened, we don't need such long holidays." He emphasized that he was not advocating for the cancellation of holidays, but rather for a reduction in their length and frequency to improve work productivity.