Netanyahu's Call to Unfollow Causes News Page Push to Lose 4,000 Followers

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on his followers last Friday to unfollow the news page Push (PUSH) on Instagram, alleging it promotes political propaganda rather than news. In the 48 hours following his appeal, the page lost approximately 4,000 followers, a significant number for an account that has cultivated a dedicated audience over years. Before Netanyahu's video, the account had about 968,000 followers; it now has 964,000, with the numbers continuing to decline.

Push, which operates multiple social media accounts, was founded by Itzik Peretzan under the name "Real-Time Reports." Initially a smaller page, it grew into one of Israel's prominent Instagram news accounts, especially among younger audiences. The account expanded rapidly, approaching one million followers.

A severe dispute later emerged between Peretzan and the owners of "Israel Entertainment." By early 2025, the conflict reached the courts, with Peretzan alleging interference in news content and attempts to remove publications for commercial and political reasons. "Israel Entertainment" countered by accusing him of seizing company assets and restricting access to digital accounts. The dispute concluded in August 2025 with a settlement where Peretzan bought back the brand and its digital assets for an estimated 6 million shekels.

Peretzan's full ownership was short-lived. New investors entered Push, with strategic advisor Moti Sharf's company Forever acquiring 35% of the shares, and 7% held by "The Right Time," associated with the Weinberger Rentental law firm. Investment firm BRM reportedly participated in financing the deal, valuing the company at around 12 million shekels, with Peretzan retaining controlling interest at 58%. In August of the following year, Peretzan bought back the 35% from Forever for approximately 3.5 million shekels, increasing his stake to 93%, with the remaining 7% held by the law firm.