Public broadcaster host sparks outrage with on-air remark about attacking Haredi protesters

During a live broadcast on Kan Reshet Bet, Israel’s public radio network, host Roni Kuban made a statement directed at Haredi protesters while discussing planned road blockages. Speaking on Thursday alongside co-host Akiva Novik, Kuban said the situation was “driving me crazy” and added, “Bring in some Haredi guy we can beat up together.”

The comment immediately drew a backlash online, especially because Kan is funded by Israeli taxpayers. The article says the remark came amid a broader surge in public tensions and an increase in violence during recent protests, including physical attacks on demonstrators and even elected officials.

The report cited several recent incidents involving violence against Haredi protesters. In one case, a driver was filmed pointing a handgun at Haredi demonstrators. In another, in Arad, a passerby was filmed striking a Haredi protester and forcefully pushing him to the ground.

The article also highlighted a separate serious assault on Gdaliahu Eisenstein, deputy mayor of Beitar Illit and chairman of the Hasidic faction. According to eyewitnesses, an attacker rammed his car and then began choking him. Eisenstein required medical treatment after the attack.