MK Yaakov Asher's Shabbat Interview Sparks Controversy
Translated & summarized from JDN by baba
Israeli lawmaker Yaakov Asher's planned interview on Channel 12's "Meet the Press" has caused controversy due to its scheduled Saturday broadcast before Shabbat ends. While Asher's team claims the interview is pre-recorded and will air after Shabbat, critics argue it violates Sabbath observance principles. Rabbi Dov Lando's household reportedly did not grant official approval for the timing, and Asher's office stated the matter would be reviewed.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- MK Yaakov Asher's interview on Channel 12's "Meet the Press" is scheduled before Shabbat ends.
- The broadcast time has drawn public criticism for desecrating the Sabbath.
- Asher's party, United Torah Judaism, advocates for Shabbat sanctity.
- Sources close to Asher say the interview will be pre-recorded and aired after Shabbat.
- Rabbi Dov Lando's household reportedly did not officially approve the broadcast timing.
- Asher's office stated the matter will be re-examined.
A planned interview with Israeli lawmaker Yaakov Asher on Channel 12's "Meet the Press" program has ignited public criticism due to its scheduled broadcast time. The program was slated to begin at 6:00 PM on Saturday, before Shabbat concludes in Tel Aviv at 6:36 PM. This timing has drawn accusations of openly desecrating the Sabbath, particularly from a politician affiliated with the United Torah Judaism party, which advocates for preserving Shabbat's sanctity in public life. Critics argue this contradicts Asher's party's stance and constitutes tacit approval of Shabbat desecration.
However, sources close to Asher stated that the interview itself would be pre-recorded on Friday and aired only after Shabbat ends. Despite this explanation, a check with Rabbi Dov Lando's household revealed that no official approval for the broadcast timing was granted. Asher's office issued a statement clarifying that they were informed the panel discussion with party leaders airs at 7:00 PM, after Shabbat, and is recorded on Friday. The office added that the matter would be re-examined, emphasizing that they would not permit Shabbat desecration.
