Journalist Haim Levinson Recounts Fallout From Haaretz Firing

Journalist Haim Levinson has spoken out about the professional and personal repercussions following his dismissal from the newspaper Haaretz last year. The controversy erupted after a Haaretz investigation revealed Levinson had received at least NIS 200,000 from the company "Perception," owned by Shrulik Einhorn, between 2019 and 2024. It was alleged that Levinson had written propaganda materials for campaigns without disclosing his financial ties to the newspaper's editorial staff. This led to the end of his 17-year tenure at Haaretz and his subsequent resignation from the TV program "Ofira and Levinson" on Channel 12.

In a recent podcast interview with Nadav Peri, Levinson expressed disappointment with former colleagues at Haaretz who have cut ties with him since the scandal. He specifically mentioned his former direct supervisor, Maya Horodniceanu, head of the news desk, who he claims ignored him the morning after the news broke and has not spoken to him since. Levinson stated, "There were people, especially from the newspaper, who were very close friends of mine. Since that day, they are no longer my friends."

Despite the widespread criticism, Levinson acknowledged that some colleagues offered him support during the difficult period. He cited Uri Mark, editor of Haaretz Magazine, who engaged in an extensive correspondence with Levinson, explaining why he didn't believe him and suspected he worked for Qatar. However, Mark maintained a respectful tone, telling Levinson, "Listen, I'm sorry. I worked with you, we did great things together." Levinson appreciated that Mark did not seem to take pleasure in his downfall.

Levinson also reflected on journalists he had helped bring to Haaretz, recommending and supporting them, only to see them distance themselves or even criticize him publicly. He questioned their actions, particularly those who tweeted against him, asking if it was to demonstrate their willingness to betray a friend. He expressed bewilderment at such behavior from people he considered close friends, some of whom he had assisted in personal matters, like finding an apartment.