News Reporter Faces Backlash for Tweet About Hypothetical Female Pilots

Michal Activian, a reporter for Israel's Channel 12 News, sparked significant controversy with a tweet posted during a tense incident involving a Flydubai flight to Ben Gurion Airport, which experienced an attempted hijacking. Initially, when reports suggested a physical altercation between crew members in the cockpit, Activian shared a seemingly lighthearted tweet: "This wouldn't have happened with female pilots." Her attempt at humor in the midst of stressful reporting was met with a wave of sharp criticism on social media. Many users attacked her statement, presenting cynical arguments and examples to counter the assumption that women are not involved in violent conflicts. In response to the escalating backlash and harsh tones, Activian blocked replies to her post. She later clarified her position, stating, "It's amazing what this tweet is stirring up in people. So much bitterness! Feminism can also be lighthearted, breathe." The incident highlights the sensitive nature of public discourse surrounding gender roles and humor during crisis reporting.