Haredi News Pioneer Yanki Katzburg Discusses Politics and Media

Yanki Katzburg, founder and editor of the digital news groups 'HaPargud' (The Curtain), spoke in an interview with Arutz 7 about the upcoming elections, new Haredi political parties, and the contentious draft law.

Katzburg, who has become an influential figure in Haredi digital media, analyzed the current political landscape, noting a perceived disconnect between the Haredi public and its representatives. He suggested that despite a general lack of enthusiasm, Haredi voters would likely follow rabbinical directives in the upcoming elections, as in the past. He also commented on new Haredi parties, alleging Gadi Eisenkot is behind Motty Leitner's 'HaTzibur HaHaredi' party and predicting 'Tzeva Chashoch' will not gain significant traction but could impact other Haredi parties.

He controversially stated that Yinon Magal, host of the program 'HaPatriotim,' is the true leader of the Haredi public, asserting that many young Haredim identify more with Magal's political messages than with their own Knesset members. Katzburg believes Magal's influence is so significant that he could severely damage the public standing of Haredi politicians if he chose to criticize them. He also observed that the Haredi public currently identifies more with figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir than with some of their own elected officials.

Regarding the draft law crisis, Katzburg expressed pessimism about reaching a consensus, citing a deep divide between the compromises Haredi lawmakers are willing to consider and the positions of significant segments of the yeshiva public and rabbinical leadership. He suggested that any agreement involving the conscription of a substantial percentage of yeshiva students would face strong opposition within the Haredi community and might not satisfy High Court of Justice demands.

Katzburg recounted the origins of 'HaPargud,' which began nearly four years ago as a small WhatsApp group to share news that traditional Haredi media often omitted, particularly sensitive internal matters. The group grew rapidly, and Katzburg began receiving inquiries from politicians and rabbis about his reporting. He initially kept his identity secret due to fear of pressure, especially concerning his children's education. He noted that while 'HaPargud' initially focused on internal Haredi news, it now covers general news as well, as some followers do not consume news from other sources. However, he has significantly reduced coverage of security matters.

He also discussed his relationship with Haredi politicians, acknowledging their need to use his platform to reach constituents, but stated he refuses political advertising from any party except for Shas and United Torah Judaism. He explained this policy prevents his groups from becoming tools to promote parties opposed by the Haredi establishment. Katzburg also addressed the changing media consumption habits, noting that even significant content from established Haredi news sites like 'Kikar HaShabbat' and 'B'Chadrei Charedim' often gains wider reach only after being clipped and shared on WhatsApp.

Katzburg mentioned that he receives and selects videos of rabbis, some featuring unusual stories or humorous remarks, for wider dissemination. He stated that despite receiving threats over the years, including from criminal elements, he avoids direct confrontation and is not afraid of similar scrutiny being directed at him.