Veteran Israeli Broadcaster Menashe Raz Dies at 80

Menashe Raz, a veteran Israeli journalist, director, and television personality, has passed away at the age of 80. Raz was a prominent figure in Israeli public broadcasting for decades, holding various roles in radio and television.

He began his media career at Galei Tzahal (Army Radio), serving as a military correspondent, editor, and presenter. After his military service, he moved to Kol Yisrael (Voice of Israel), where he hosted news broadcasts and music programs, notably being the first host of the iconic show "Shirim VeSha'arim" (Songs and Goals).

Raz later joined Israel's Channel 1, working for many years as a military and political correspondent, editor, and anchor. He hosted the flagship news program "Mabat LaChadashot" (News Glance), edited and hosted the interview show "Mesibat Itonaim" (Press Conference), and directed documentary films.

In 1979, Raz received the Kinor David (Harp of David) award for a series of documentaries he directed about the conditions in Israeli prisons. Alongside his journalistic work, Raz also taught, sharing his experience with generations of students in communication, film, and television.

For over four decades, Raz was an integral part of Israeli broadcasting during a period when Channel 1 and Kol Yisrael were the primary broadcast centers in the country.