Shlomo Filber Criticizes Media Backlash Over Netanyahu's Weight Loss Joke

Shlomo Filber, a media figure and strategic advisor, addressed the controversy surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent comment on Channel 14. During the Patriots program, Netanyahu was asked what had changed for him since October 7, to which he humorously replied, "I lost some weight." This response sparked widespread criticism online, with many accusing Netanyahu of being disconnected, insensitive, and out of touch. Critics included politicians, bereaved parents, social media activists, and journalists.

Filber responded to the media's harsh reaction by expressing confusion over their strategy. He questioned why journalists would focus intensely on a single humorous remark from a 40-minute interview. Filber suggested that if the intent was to energize Netanyahu's loyal base, it was understandable, but if the goal was to alienate moderate right-wing voters seeking rational answers to serious issues, the media was mistaken.

In related commentary, a Haaretz journalist controversially claimed that former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is more beneficial to the left-wing than former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, highlighting ongoing political debates within Israel's media landscape.