Israel's Channel 13 Sale Approved by Broadcasting Council

Israel's Second Authority for Television and Radio has approved the sale of Channel 13, a major Israeli television network, to the Merit fund, led by high-tech entrepreneur Asaf Rapoport. The deal, initially agreed upon in March 2026, will see Rapoport's group acquire control of the channel. The approval comes with specific conditions aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing undue influence on the channel's content and decision-making processes. These include mechanisms for monitoring funding sources and donors, and expanding the number of individuals involved in the Merit fund's decision-making.

Rapoport will purchase a controlling stake from Access Industries, owned by Len Blavatnik, for $25 million. The buyers have also committed to a significant investment plan, injecting $45 million in the first year and approximately $100 million over the first three years. The primary goal of this investment is to achieve operational break-even for the channel within three years, alongside substantial upgrades to its digital infrastructure and content production.

As part of the transaction, Access Industries and Warner Bros. Discovery will retain minority stakes in Channel 13. Following the approval, the immediate next steps are expected to include the appointment of new board members representing Rapoport's interests, who will then oversee the selection of a permanent CEO and drive changes within the company. The formation of a dedicated board for the channel's newsroom is also anticipated.