Netanyahu Taps Former Channel 14 Commentator Yaakov Bardugo for Communications Minister

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to appoint Yaakov Bardugo, a former political commentator for Channel 14, as his next Communications Minister, should he be re-elected. Netanyahu has mentioned Bardugo as a potential candidate on two separate occasions, expressing a desire for an effective minister capable of enacting significant reforms in the telecommunications sector.

Bardugo, who previously expressed interest in the Justice Ministry, is reportedly being considered for the Communications portfolio partly due to the current minister, Shlomo Karhi, holding a low position on the Knesset list at number 27. Bardugo has a history of sharp commentary, having criticized opposition politicians, military leaders, and even some Likud ministers with whom he had disputes. Notably, he called then-IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir a "political man" and urged his resignation. Bardugo also reportedly met with Shin Bet Director David Barnia in July, demanding a criminal investigation into Channel 12 news regarding leaks about the timing of Operation "Lion's Roar."

Netanyahu had allegedly pressured Barnia to investigate Channel 12 for leaking information about the operation's timing, influenced by some of his ministers. A spokesperson for the Likud party stated that the Prime Minister is currently focused solely on securing a victory for the party and preventing a left-wing government led by Benny Gantz, and is not engaged in appointments or the distribution of roles.