Israeli Broadcaster Eyal Berkovich Suspended Over Racist Remarks

Eyal Berkovich, a broadcaster for Israel's Channel 13, was suspended on Sunday following additional racist remarks made during a live broadcast on Saturday night. During the program "Moriyah and Berkovich," Berkovich expressed disdain for the ability of Muslims and Arabs to be doctors, sparking widespread outrage on social media. The segment featured a discussion with Channel 13's US correspondent Suliman Maswadeh about Abdul Al-Sayed, an American politician and epidemiologist who is the first Muslim elected to the US Senate. When Maswadeh introduced Al-Sayed as "Doctor Abdul Al-Sayed," Berkovich interrupted, questioning the title and suggesting anyone can be called a doctor, referencing politician Ahmad Tibi and implying he too is not a doctor. His co-host, Moriyah Asraf, laughed during Berkovich's remarks, while Maswadeh appeared shocked and attempted to correct Berkovich.

Channel 13 issued a statement emphasizing that while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of journalism, it does not justify racist statements. The network stated that Berkovich's comments were unacceptable and contrary to the company's values. Following a clarifying conversation, Berkovich was immediately suspended. An insider told Haaretz that some reporters at the network are questioning why Asraf, who they claim fueled Berkovich's comments and laughed, was not also suspended.

This incident follows a previous controversy on election day when Berkovich made a racist remark towards journalist and presenter Lucy Aharish, telling her to "go shout like that in your village." Aharish was deeply offended and refused to host her program for three days. A senior Channel 13 official had previously described the program hosted by Asraf and Berkovich as a "incitement show." In light of the recent remarks, an interview conducted by Omri Assenheim with Berkovich was removed from the broadcast schedule at the last minute, with the network stating a final decision on whether it will be aired or shelved has not yet been made.