Israeli Media Mourns Veteran Journalist Menashe Raz, Dead at 80

The Israeli media landscape is in mourning following the death of veteran journalist, director, and radio and television personality Menashe Raz, who passed away at the age of 80. Raz was recognized as a prominent voice and influential figure in public broadcasting for decades, leaving a significant mark on news, documentary filmmaking, and culture in Israel.

Public relations professional Rani Rahav expressed his sorrow, remembering Raz as "a wonderful, honest journalist and person. May his memory be blessed." Rahav frequently shares his thoughts on influential Israeli figures.

Kan News, Israel's public broadcaster, also issued a formal statement of condolence. "Kan News mourns the death of Menashe Raz, a veteran journalist, director, and presenter in public broadcasting," the statement read. It highlighted Raz's long career, noting he joined Israeli Television in the early 1970s as a news correspondent and documentary filmmaker, subsequently holding various roles in television and radio. The broadcaster extended condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Raz began his media career as a military correspondent for Galei Tzahal (Army Radio). He later became a central figure at Kol Yisrael (Voice of Israel) and Israeli Television. His work included serving as a correspondent and editor for "Mabat LaChadashot" (News Overview), hosting the program "Meseat Itonaim" (Press Conference), and editing and presenting news broadcasts and music programs on Kol Yisrael. He is also remembered as the first presenter of the iconic program "Shirim Ve'Sh'arim" (Songs and Goals).

Beyond his current affairs work, Raz was an acclaimed documentary filmmaker. In 1979, he received the "Kinor David" (Harp of David) award for a documentary series about Israeli prisons. During his reserve duty in the Air Force, he documented clandestine operations to bring Ethiopian Jews through Sudan. Raz also dedicated time to education, teaching generations of film and communication students at Tel Aviv University and other academic institutions.