Former Netanyahu Associate Compares Israeli Broadcasting Law to Criminal Case 5000

Nir Hefetz, a former close associate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu turned state witness in the 'thousands cases,' criticized the broadcasting reform law promoted by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi. In a June 30 interview on the "Avri and Sharky" program, Hefetz said the law resembles Case 5000, alleging that Karhi is openly doing in the Knesset what Netanyahu was accused of in criminal proceedings. Karhi confirmed a secret political deal with Shas party leader Aryeh Deri, trading support for the broadcasting law in exchange for advancing kosher certification reforms favored by Shas.

Karhi has repeatedly stated that the reform aims to reduce regulation in the media sector. However, critics argue the current bill increases legislative involvement and unfairly benefits pro-government media outlets such as Channel 14 and i24NEWS. After failing to secure a majority, parts of the bill were split off, and the remaining sections are currently under review by a special Knesset committee, with plans to pass key provisions before the upcoming elections.

The law has sparked controversy within the coalition, especially among ultra-Orthodox parties opposing unresolved issues like Sabbath desecration and content restrictions in a new government app replacing "Idan Plus." MK Avi Maoz (Noam) announced his resignation from the committee and opposition to the bill if it remains unchanged, citing concerns over legitimizing Sabbath violations. Karhi acknowledged his political pragmatism, stating, "I am very much in favor of political deals, I am a politician." The law's passage is seen as a critical test for the coalition ahead of October elections.