Israeli Broadcaster Yinon Magal Apologizes to Bibas Family

Broadcaster Yinon Magal has apologized to the Bibas family for remarks he made on his show, "The Patriots." Magal met with the uncle and cousin of Shiri Bibas, acknowledging that his words caused pain and were taken out of context. He expressed deep regret for hurting the family and others, stating it was never his intention.

In a video documenting the apology, Magal described the meeting as "long, painful, and good." He explained that his original comments were part of a broader discussion about a campaign against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and were not meant to target the Bibas family. Magal admitted that the remarks became focused on the family during the broadcast and that his subsequent clarification was not adequately reported by the media.

Magal stated that he had entered a situation he did not intend or plan for, leading to his words "getting out of control." He conveyed his apologies to Yarden Bibas, Ofri, and all other affected family members. Magal also acknowledged a mistake in not clarifying his position immediately after the broadcast, noting that by the time he did, the media had already moved on.

The apology comes amid what Magal described as a "hate campaign" orchestrated by Ben Caspit, who allegedly took Magal's words out of context as part of an incitement effort against him. Magal emphasized his understanding of the profound grief and pain experienced by families who have suffered loss, based on his extensive interviews with them over the years.