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MaarivPolitics

Author Claims Channel 12 Coverage Mirrors North Korean Propaganda

Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba

CenterCharged tone

Hebrew · 1 newsroom

Author Michael Kleiner criticizes Gadi Eisenkot's leadership and likens Channel 12's election coverage to North Korean propaganda. He argues that the election of anti-Zionist representatives and Eisenkot's stance on Hamas pose a threat to Israel's Jewish character. Kleiner contends that Channel 12 unfairly portrayed Netanyahu as the winner and that the focus should be on disqualified Knesset members who refuse to condemn terrorism. He suggests that a government coalition will likely remain in power until 2030.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

  • Author Michael Kleiner compares Channel 12's reporting to North Korean propaganda.
  • Kleiner criticizes Gadi Eisenkot's leadership and stance on anti-Zionist parties.
  • He claims Channel 12 unfairly portrayed Netanyahu as the election winner.
  • The author states disqualified Knesset members refuse to condemn Hamas.
  • Kleiner predicts a coalition government will remain in power until 2030.

Author Michael Kleiner argues that upcoming elections are unlikely due to the expectation that the national camp will win. He attributes a shift in public consciousness to the election of 19 representatives from anti-Zionist parties, many of whom openly advocate for the abolition of Israel's Jewish character and support a "right of return" that would effectively dismantle the state. Kleiner criticizes Gadi Eisenkot's leadership, questioning his values and ability to function under pressure, particularly his perceived hesitation regarding cooperation with those who refuse to condemn Hamas and seek to replace the Law of Return with the right of return.

Kleiner also launches a strong critique against Channel 12, describing its post-election coverage as "crazy." He contends that the channel acted as a "Bibi-ist mouthpiece" by focusing on minor issues like financial incentives for Arab voters, while ignoring the mathematical reality of election results. This, he claims, is a continuation of a narrative that portrays Netanyahu as the winner, despite the numbers. Kleiner likens this coverage to that of Channel 14, suggesting a shift in the target of criticism from Channel 4 to Channel 2.

The author dismisses the idea that the Arab voting public was disqualified, asserting instead that it was the Knesset members who refuse to define Hamas as a terrorist organization and dedicate their election victories to imprisoned terrorists who were disqualified. He draws a parallel to German politics, noting that no one questioned the exclusion of a left-wing party as a coalition partner, even if it meant excluding certain groups.

Looking ahead, Kleiner expresses hope that the ultra-Orthodox parties will not be tempted to support a government with Eisenkot, fearing they might be relegated to a secondary role. He explains that forming a government requires a simple majority, but toppling one requires a constructive no-confidence vote, which necessitates agreement on a prime minister among 61 members. Kleiner concludes that the 19 representatives will ensure some form of "servants' alliance" remains in power until November 2030.

MaarivCentre · Jerusalem

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