Commentator Assays Buzaglo for 'Detachment From Roots'

Social media commentator Meni Assayag has sharply criticized TV personality Yaakov Buzaglo, accusing him of being "detached from roots and values." Assayag's remarks, posted on X, targeted Buzaglo's political stances and past statements about potentially leaving Israel, linking them to his family name's origins and Moroccan Jewish heritage.

Assayag cited the book "Netivot HaMa'arav," which discusses Moroccan Jewish traditions, claiming the name Buzaglo derives from "Buz-Galut," meaning contempt for exile. He suggested this reflects his ancestors' longing for the Land of Israel.

"The man wants to return to exile if Yair Golan is not the Defense Minister," Assayag wrote, referencing Buzaglo's past comments about leaving Israel if Benjamin Netanyahu remained Prime Minister, and his ten-month stay in Batumi, Georgia. "When we talk about detachment from roots and values, we are talking about exactly this," Assayag added, concluding with "Have a nice flight. No Kaplan, no massacre."

The criticism comes amid Buzaglo's public statements, where he has identified as a "proud leftist" and supported Yair Golan's Democrats party. Buzaglo recently supported Golan amidst controversy with Einav Tsengauer, mother of hostage Matan Tsengauer, regarding a promised senior position in the party list.

Buzaglo also addressed past remarks about leaving Israel, asserting his right to decide where to live without answering to anyone but his family. He also pushed back against the notion that Mizrahi Jews who identify as leftists are traitors, stating, "I am Mizrahi, Moroccan, and a proud leftist."

Assayag's post adds to the public debate surrounding Buzaglo's political views, choices, and statements about living abroad, highlighting a perceived disconnect between Buzaglo's heritage and his current positions.