Legal Reporter Guy Peleg Cites 'Masks Off' Era for Reduced TV Presence

Guy Peleg, the prominent legal affairs reporter for Israel's Channel 12 News, has revealed his decision to significantly reduce his on-screen appearances due to the ongoing controversy surrounding the "100 Unit" incident at the Sde Teiman facility. In a new podcast, Peleg explained that while the network aims to host a wide range of politicians to demonstrate impartiality, he personally chose not to share a studio with individuals he believes are inciting against him and his reporting, particularly concerning the Sde Teiman events. He explicitly stated he would not participate in panels with "Bibiists," adding, "I will not dance with those who seek my life."

Peleg clarified that Channel 12 did not force him to participate in these panels and expressed appreciation for the system's support. He criticized the current state of journalistic reporting, stating "the masks have come off" and his opinions are rarely heard relative to other voices within the media. He also noted that his on-air time is considerably less than that of his colleague Amit Segal, who has a more right-leaning profile.

During the podcast, attorney Shani Iluz challenged Peleg, suggesting his boycott of panels and interviews exacerbates societal polarization. Peleg rejected this comparison, differentiating his situation from Iluz's past political grievances, arguing that while she faced a "political maneuver," his own life and family are being targeted. He stated, "He who stands behind a campaign to eliminate me is not a dialogue partner."

The controversy stems from Peleg's August 2024 report on the Sde Teiman facility, which included security footage appearing to show reservist soldiers taking a Palestinian detainee aside and concealing their actions. This report sparked significant political backlash and legal action. In March 2026, charges against the soldiers were dropped due to evidentiary and procedural issues. The soldiers, through the Honenu organization, subsequently filed multi-million shekel defamation and tort lawsuits against Peleg, Channel 12, and senior military prosecution officials, alleging severe reputational damage.

Public anger resurfaced recently when it was revealed that the former Military Advocate General would receive her full pension, igniting widespread debate and criticism online. The article suggests these ongoing repercussions continue to shape the internal dynamics of Channel 12 News.