Eyal Berkovich's Son Defends Father After Suspension
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Israeli television host Eyal Berkovich has been suspended from Channel 13 after questioning the academic title of Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and drawing a parallel to Knesset Member Ahmed Tibi. Berkovich's son, Lior, defended his father, criticizing the suspension and Tibi's stance. Channel 13 stated that while freedom of expression is valued, it does not excuse racist remarks, leading to the decision after a clarification meeting.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Eyal Berkovich suspended from Channel 13 for questioning a guest's title and comparing him to Ahmed Tibi.
- Berkovich's son, Lior, defended his father, calling the suspension "the easiest" option.
- Channel 13 cited "racist remarks" as grounds for suspension, despite valuing free speech.
- The controversy stemmed from Berkovich's comments about Dr. Abdul El-Sayed during a broadcast.
- Ahmed Tibi was also mentioned by Berkovich in the context of questioning academic titles.
Lior Berkovich, son of Israeli television host Eyal Berkovich, has publicly defended his father following his suspension from Channel 13. The suspension came after Eyal Berkovich questioned the title of Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a public figure known for anti-Israel stances, during a broadcast. Lior Berkovich criticized the decision, stating, "It's easiest to suspend Dad." He also attacked Knesset Member Ahmed Tibi, sarcastically questioning why El-Sayed's well-being was suddenly a concern, given Tibi's alleged condemnation of the October 7th events. Lior Berkovich accused Tibi of making Israelis a "joke" and being "the biggest Israel-hater in the country," urging his father to continue expressing his opinions.
The controversy began during the "Moriah and Berkovich" show when Eyal Berkovich, discussing El-Sayed's potential US Senate run with correspondent Soleiman Maswadeh, expressed skepticism about El-Sayed's doctorate. He then linked this to Ahmed Tibi, saying, "Everyone gives him the title doctor. Did you check if he is a doctor? They also call Ahmed Tibi a doctor." This remark caused immediate discomfort and led to significant public and media backlash.
Channel 13 responded by summoning Berkovich for a clarification meeting. In a statement, the network asserted that "freedom of expression and diversity of opinions are cornerstones of free journalism, but they do not justify racist remarks." The channel concluded that Berkovich's statements were unacceptable and did not align with the company's values, leading to his immediate suspension from broadcasting.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Coverage from Ice
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
