Israeli Broadcasters Clash Over Channel 14's Decision Not to Air Oct. 7 Memorial Ceremony
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
On the anniversary of the October 7th attacks, Israeli broadcaster Channel 14 opted not to air a national memorial ceremony, instead broadcasting its regular programming. This decision drew sharp criticism from fellow broadcasters Eyal Berkovich and Gili Vermut, as well as a political candidate. Berkovich publicly rebuked his co-host Yinon Magal, while Vermut accused Channel 14 of focusing on political messaging over remembrance. The channel was also called the "regime channel" for its alleged attempt to rewrite history.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Channel 14 refused to broadcast a national memorial ceremony for the October 7th victims.
- Broadcaster Eyal Berkovich criticized his co-host Yinon Magal over the decision.
- Football commentator Gili Vermut accused Channel 14 of political propaganda instead of remembrance.
- A political candidate called Channel 14 the "regime channel" for its coverage.
- The controversy highlights divisions in Israeli media coverage of the October 7th events.
On the first anniversary of the October 7th attacks, a national memorial ceremony was held in Israel, initiated by families of the victims and the "Komo" movement. The event took place at Park Hayarkon and was broadcast by nearly all Israeli media outlets, with the notable exception of Channel 14. Instead of airing the ceremony, Channel 14 broadcast its program "HaPatriots." This decision sparked immediate controversy and criticism.
TV and radio host Eyal Berkovich publicly criticized his radio co-host, Yinon Magal, whom he referred to as "Shufri," by posting on Instagram, "Shufri, dry yourself out." Berkovich's comment followed a strong reaction from football commentator Gili Vermut.
Vermut expressed his dismay on X (formerly Twitter), contrasting the heartfelt stories of victims and heroes shown on other channels with Channel 14's coverage. He stated that Channel 14 focused on "how strong Bibi is" and "how we have grown" since the attack, prioritizing "cult above all." Vermut questioned the humanity of those at the channel, asking, "What are the people there made of?!"
Additionally, a candidate for prime minister, Gadi Iziknot, attacked Channel 14's decision, labeling it the "regime channel." He condemned the channel's "shameful" disregard for the memorial ceremony and its continuation of broadcasting in the spirit of the ruling party. Iziknot accused the channel of spreading hatred and attempting to rewrite history, thereby hurting the entire nation's pain. He asserted that such actions have no place in Israeli society.
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