Opposition MK Slams TV Hosts Over 'Biased' Reporting, Warns of Free Speech Crackdown

Member of Knesset Vladimir Beliak of the Yesh Atid party has publicly criticized Channel 12 news anchors Nasli Bardah and Yoav Limor, accusing them of biased reporting and one-sided coverage. Beliak's criticism stems from a segment on their program where he claims the anchors unfairly targeted his statements and repeatedly imposed "fines" on him without allowing him a right to respond.

In a direct message posted on social media, Beliak addressed the anchors, stating, "I want to say to Nasli Bardah and Yoav Limor, with much respect and appreciation: You picked on me in your sanctimonious segment, fine." He protested being labeled a "divisive" figure and highlighted that he was called the "most toxic and divisive" MK in Israel. Beliak emphasized that he was given "fines" three times without any opportunity to respond on air.

Furthermore, Beliak condemned what he described as the creation of a false symmetry between political criticism and incitement. He cited an example where the anchors equated publishing a "wild incitement video against the justice system" and calling Smotrich a "rag of Haredi functionaries" as being the same as his own actions.

Beliak stressed the importance of the parliamentary struggle he and his colleagues are engaged in, asserting that it concerns taxpayers' money, the future of the country, democracy, and freedom of expression. He concluded with a direct warning to the journalists: "And if, God forbid, the current coalition survives these elections, it will immediately act to shut your mouths and revoke your right to practice the profession you love so much. Let there be no doubt about that."