Channel 13 Suspends Anchor Eyal Berkovich After Controversial Remarks

Israeli television presenter Eyal Berkovich was immediately suspended from broadcasting on Channel 13 on Sunday following controversial statements made on his show, "Moriah and Berkovich." News 13 confirmed the decision, stating that Berkovich's remarks did not align with the company's values. Berkovich co-hosts the current affairs program with journalist Moriah Asraf, which covers political and public agenda topics.

The suspension follows a public outcry after Berkovich and Asraf questioned the academic credentials of American politician Abdul El-Sayed and Israeli Member of Knesset Ahmad Tibi. Specifically, Berkovich cast doubt on Tibi's doctorate, saying, "They also call Ahmad Tibi a doctor. Everyone is a doctor. Let him show the certificate." Both Tibi and El-Sayed hold medical degrees.

The comments sparked criticism on social media from various figures, including media professionals and Tibi himself. Following the backlash, Berkovich was interviewed by the network's management, which ultimately led to his immediate suspension. Channel 13 issued a statement emphasizing that while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of free journalism, it does not justify racist statements, and that Berkovich's remarks were unacceptable and contrary to the company's values.

This incident occurs shortly after another contentious exchange between Berkovich and fellow Channel 13 anchor Lucy Aharish, which also drew criticism. Aharish had temporarily stopped broadcasting following that confrontation but later returned after discussions with management. Berkovich has since distanced himself from the specific wording he used but rejected the characterization of his remarks as racist.