Kanal 11 Director Itzik Barashi Dies in Cycling Accident

Itzik Barashi, a respected director at the news division of Kan, Israel's public broadcaster, died Saturday morning in a cycling accident on Highway 44 near the Nesherim interchange. Barashi, 56, is survived by his wife and three children. Funeral details have not yet been released.

Kan's management eulogized Barashi, stating, "Kan News mourns the death of our colleague. Barashi, one of Kan News's most professional and talented directors, joined the broadcasting corporation almost from its inception in 2018. Since then, he has accompanied our broadcasts with professionalism and commitment, in routine and in war." The statement added, "Kan News sends condolences to his wife, Shirley, his children Keren, Roi, and Itai, his family, his friends, and all his colleagues."

Uri Levi, a presenter on Kan 11's "Sharon and Uri" program, spoke emotionally about Barashi, who was scheduled to direct their show that day. "There are moments at work that make you less public and much more personal," Levi said. "Director Itzik Barashi was supposed to be our director for today's program, right now, to sit above us in the corporation, giving us instructions for the broadcast. But this morning we received the difficult news - Itzik Barashi died in a cycling accident, which was the love of his life. And for us, it is very difficult to recover."

Sharon Veksler, co-host of "Sharon and Uri," shared her weekly conversations with Barashi about his cycling routes, the weather, and his experiences. "Itzik was a charming, warm guy, always a pleasure to talk to, and of course, an excellent professional," she said.

Amit Kamchi, a fellow cyclist and friend, described Barashi as a "special person" known and loved by all cyclists. "Even when it was difficult, he smiled, everyone fell in love with him. We ride for fun, for the atmosphere. We are not looking for competitiveness, it's all about the experiences," Kamchi added.