Israeli Public Broadcaster Slams Ayelet Hasson Over 'Baseless' Remarks

Kan, Israel's Public Broadcasting Corporation, has issued an unprecedented condemnation of broadcaster Ayelet Hasson following her recent controversial statements. The corporation stated that Hasson's remarks about Kan and its management, including baseless accusations of a coordinated attack against her, are severe and unacceptable. Kan specifically referenced threats and incitement directed at Lior Landenberg, the Deputy Director General of News, asserting that no one dictated Hasson's response to them, contrary to her claims. Hasson herself announced on social media that she would not appear for broadcast, after exchanges of draft responses.

Kan emphasized its commitment to a wide range of opinions, press freedom, and the professional independence of its journalists, providing full backing to its staff and management. However, the corporation will not tolerate sweeping, offensive statements or unsubstantiated accusations regarding the integrity of Israeli elections. Hasson's comments, which presented suspicions of irregularities in Arab sector polling stations and included generalizations about Bedouin women, are deemed to have crossed the line of legitimate journalistic discourse and responsible reporting.

These statements, Kan argued, not only offend entire communities but also risk undermining public trust in the democratic process and election results. The corporation reiterated its full and unequivocal support for Lior Landenberg and his professional decisions. The controversy began after Hasson made remarks during a radio interview about Bedouin women in the Negev, linking them to polygamy and Palestinian origins, and questioning their role in the 'Change bloc.'

Although Hasson apologized on social media platform X, Kan demanded a broadcast apology in a text approved in advance. Following a Ynet report about this ultimatum, Hasson stated in a radio interview that no 'Bolshevik' would silence her, after Landenberg's demand for an apology. Ynet previously reported that the ultimatum was expected to lead to the end of Hasson's tenure at Kan, with the ongoing mutual attacks reinforcing this likelihood. It was also learned that Kan has engaged legal counsel, indicating a potential move to the legal arena.