MK Meirav Ben Ari Criticizes Netanyahu's 'Personality Cult' and Media Coverage
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Member of Knesset Meirav Ben Ari criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's leadership as a "personality cult" and accused the media of biased coverage that underrepresents the opposition's work. She stated that elections should focus on issues beyond Netanyahu, including Haredi conscription and public funds. Ben Ari expressed openness to cooperating with Arab parties for a stable "Zionist majority" in the Knesset, particularly for security legislation. She also criticized the handling of the Communications Law and the media environment, advocating for balanced and critical reporting.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- MK Meirav Ben Ari called Prime Minister Netanyahu's leadership a "personality cult" detached from true right-wing values.
- Ben Ari criticized media coverage for underrepresenting the opposition and creating hostile interview environments.
- She argued that elections should address issues like Haredi conscription and public fund allocation, not just Netanyahu.
- Ben Ari is open to cooperation with Arab parties but insists on a stable "Zionist majority" for security legislation.
- She believes public support for Netanyahu stems from dependency, fear, and political intimidation.
- Ben Ari criticized the process of passing the Communications Law, citing disregard for legal advice.
Member of Knesset Meirav Ben Ari, the highest-ranking woman in the 'Achva' party, has sharply criticized the current government and Prime Minister Netanyahu, stating that his leadership is a "personality cult" rather than true right-wing ideology. She argued that the right-wing movement has deviated from its historical principles, citing issues like alleged draft-dodging and the transfer of public funds to those who do not serve. Ben Ari also expressed frustration with media coverage, asserting that it fails to adequately represent the opposition's efforts to block government initiatives and often presents hostile panels.
Speaking on the "Tik Tok" podcast, Ben Ari emphasized that the upcoming elections should not solely focus on Netanyahu but also on critical issues such as the conscription of Haredim, shared service, and public funds allocated to non-conscripts. She indicated a willingness for the next coalition to cooperate with Arab parties on civil and welfare matters, but stressed the necessity of a stable "Zionist majority" of 61 Knesset members, particularly for passing security legislation.
Ben Ari also addressed the perceived lack of public support for the opposition, acknowledging some responsibility but primarily blaming insufficient media reflection of their parliamentary work. She highlighted instances where the opposition's efforts to block legislation, such as the Communications Law, were not adequately reported. Ben Ari also complained about unbalanced airtime in media studios, where government ministers receive significantly more time than opposition representatives.
Regarding Channel 14, which she described as a "channel of poison and lies," Ben Ari stated she would not be interviewed there due to its alleged harm to the families of hostages. However, she noted interviews on i24news. She believes that while the opposition needs to focus on issues relevant to young people, such as resource allocation and military service, the public's continued support for Netanyahu stems from political dependency, fear of alternatives, and political intimidation tactics.
Ben Ari also discussed the Communications Law, criticizing the process under Minister Shlomo Karhi and Committee Chairwoman Galit Distel Atbaryan, alleging they bypassed professional and legal advice. She believes that parts of the law will need to be revised or canceled by a future government. She stated that while Channel 14 should not be shut down, its "making of lies" must stop.