Lapid Calls to Shut Down Channel 14, Citing 'Propaganda'

Opposition leader Yair Lapid launched a sharp attack on Channel 14 on Monday, calling for its closure and describing it as a "propaganda channel for the Prime Minister." Speaking on 103FM radio, Lapid expressed concern over the channel's continued presence, stating, "What worries me in the media is that I arrive at places and still see Channel 14 open." He further criticized the channel's owners, alleging that "a criminal oligarch and his draft-dodging son bought a propaganda channel for the Prime Minister, and we all treat it as if it's a sane situation." Lapid argued that the channel's content "poisons Israeli society."

Lapid also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's advisor, Yonatan Uriach, in connection with the "Qatargate" affair. Lapid questioned why someone would receive money from a state supporting terrorism during wartime and then be embraced by the Prime Minister upon release from arrest. Uriach and his associates have previously denied the allegations against him.

Lapid further commented on the possibility of serving in a government with Netanyahu, even if Netanyahu were to serve as Finance Minister. He stated that the Prime Minister on October 7th, and anyone who continues in that role, will lead to further disasters. These remarks came amid controversy surrounding Naftali Bennett, who had suggested Netanyahu was a good finance minister and that he would be open to him serving in a government led by someone else. Bennett later clarified that his party would not sit with Netanyahu in any configuration. Lapid supported Bennett's clarification, stating, "It's not a good time for irony." He also added, "Drink water, we will not sit with him, don't confuse the issue."

Regarding the possibility of a military engagement with Iran before the elections, Lapid stated, "According to the intelligence I am aware of, there should not be a war before the elections."