Actor Sharon Alexander Clarifies Remarks on 'Bibiists'

Actor and Ophir Prize winner Sharon Alexander has clarified remarks he made regarding the hero of the Flydubai flight, Yaniv Hayun. Alexander stated that his criticism was not directed at Hayun himself, but rather at the stereotypes employed by both political camps in Israel. He had previously written that Hayun, who was instrumental in neutralizing a threat on the flight, was a "Bibiist," a term often used to label supporters of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Appearing on the program "Ptitchei Vzmiri," Alexander explained that his comment stemmed from his own political camp's tendency to label those who support Netanyahu as "Bibiists." He emphasized that his post was primarily intended as self-criticism and directed at some of his friends, asserting that Hayun possesses extraordinary abilities. Alexander added that his personal interaction with Hayun challenged the negative image associated with "Bibiists," stating that Hayun's personality contradicted the stereotype. He further elaborated that the post was against the mutual stereotyping, where one side calls the other "Bibiists" and the other side calls them "leftists."

Alexander also praised Hayun's actions on the plane, noting the bravery of being the first to intervene in a dangerous situation. He described how Hayun quickly identified the attacker and acted decisively, stating, "If he had stopped for a second to deliberate, it would have been too late." Alexander concluded by expressing admiration for Hayun, questioning whether such an impressive, gentle, noble, and intelligent person truly fits the label of a "Bibiist."