Court Rejects Libel Suit Against Journalist Meir Ettinger, Orders Plaintiff to Pay

A Magistrate's Court in Netanya has dismissed a libel lawsuit filed by Sa'id Issa, former head of the People's Committee in Kafr Qasim, against journalist and investigator Meir Ettinger. The court ruled that Ettinger's publication was protected by the truth defense and ordered Issa to pay NIS 15,000 plus VAT in legal fees.

The lawsuit stemmed from a May 2022 Twitter post by Ettinger, who alleged that Issa was among the organizers of a reception for a released terrorist, Ibrahim Al-Touri. Al-Touri, from Kafr Qasim, had served 16 years in prison for offenses including contact with a foreign agent, betraying a decision to commit treason, aiding in manslaughter, and weapons offenses.

In his lawsuit, Issa did not dispute Ettinger's description of his conviction for aiding murder and attempting to kidnap soldiers for Hamas. However, he claimed Ettinger's publication was false and that he did not organize the reception, stating he only attended the released prisoner's courtyard near the event's end to ensure COVID-19 restrictions were followed.

Judge Mirav Daniel Bonan rejected Issa's account, finding it unreliable. The court determined that Issa knew about the reception, attended Al-Touri's home that day, and participated in the event, even congratulating the released prisoner. Evidence included a Facebook post from the People's Committee, which Issa headed, welcoming Al-Touri, and a photo showing Issa with him. The judge found that even if Issa wasn't a primary organizer, Ettinger's defense of truth still applied.

The court also ruled that Ettinger acted in good faith, fulfilling a moral and social duty as a journalist investigating a public figure. The publication was deemed to be of public interest, particularly given Issa's role as head of the People's Committee. Ettinger's testimony was described as organized, consistent, and credible.

The court dismissed the lawsuit and ordered Issa to pay Ettinger NIS 15,000 plus VAT within 30 days. Issa has the right to appeal to the District Court within 60 days. Ettinger's legal representation, from the Honenu organization, stated they welcomed the ruling, calling it a blow against attempts by public figures to silence criticism and support for terrorists.