Billionaire Asaf Rappaport's Media Gambit Risks Undermining Liberal Values
Translated & summarized from TheMarker by baba
Tech billionaire Asaf Rappaport's takeover of Channel 13, initially seen as a win for liberal media, is now under scrutiny due to his perceived shift towards the right. Concerns have been raised about his engagement with controversial figures like Yinon Magal and potential recruitment of Amit Segal, a commentator criticized for biased reporting. Rappaport's focus on ratings and winning appears to be overshadowing the initial goal of fostering professional, liberal journalism, potentially leading to increased polarization.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Billionaire Asaf Rappaport's Channel 13 acquisition faces criticism for potentially compromising liberal values.
- Rappaport's praise for commentator Yinon Magal and potential recruitment of Amit Segal raise concerns.
- Critics argue Rappaport is prioritizing ratings and populist tactics over professional journalism.
- The move risks creating another Channel 12, exacerbating political polarization.
- Initial hopes for a new model of independent, value-driven media are reportedly fading.
The acquisition of Channel 13 by billionaire Asaf Rappaport and a group of tech professionals was initially celebrated by the liberal camp as a victory over Patrick Drahi and a potential boost for free media. However, this optimism has quickly faded due to concerns about Rappaport's recent decisions. The involvement of PR executive Zamir Dachbash in decision-making and interference in journalistic appointments have raised red flags. Rappaport's recent interview with Roni Kuban on Kan 11, where he praised commentator Yinon Magal as a "magnet" and refused to label Magal's show as dangerous, further fueled these doubts.
Further actions suggest a shift towards the right, questioning whether Rappaport truly understands the issues plaguing Israeli media and their impact on the country's direction. A report by Yasmin Guetta in TheMarker revealed Rappaport's meeting with Amit Segal, a commentator known for blurring the lines between journalism and propaganda, to potentially recruit him to Channel 13. Segal's commentary is criticized for its biased framing of the anti-government protests and its use of deflection tactics, such as the recurring "Where were you during the disengagement?" argument.
The initial hope was that Rappaport would create a new model for Israeli media, focusing on professional journalism and accountability rather than chasing ratings and sensationalism. Instead, he appears to be embracing the same tactics as competitors, like Channel 12, by seeking to attract viewers through controversial figures and potentially compromising liberal values. While the need for ratings is acknowledged, the fear is that this approach will lead to further polarization of public discourse.
Rappaport's drive to win at all costs, stemming from his background as a successful businessman, seems to be guiding his decisions. The potential recruitment of Amit Segal, while possibly boosting ratings and weakening rivals, is seen as a move that would primarily benefit Segal and strengthen his influence, rather than advance liberal ideals. The article concludes that while Rappaport may believe this strategy will legitimize him and his allies, it risks creating another Channel 12, prioritizing populism and ratings over professional journalism and democratic values.