Eyal Berkovich Returns to TV and Radio Just One Week After Controversy
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Israeli host Eyal Berkovich will return to Channel 13 and 103FM radio on Sunday, one week after his suspension for questioning the doctoral degrees of politician Abdul El-Sayed and MK Ahmad Tibi. The decision to shorten his suspension followed internal discussions between Berkovich and Channel 13 management. The controversy had led to widespread public backlash and internal tension, including a prior confrontation with host Lucy Aharish.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Eyal Berkovich returns to Channel 13 and 103FM radio on Sunday after a one-week suspension.
- Berkovich was suspended for questioning the doctoral degrees of Abdul El-Sayed and Ahmad Tibi on air.
- Channel 13 shortened his suspension following internal discussions and a clarification meeting.
- The incident followed a prior public confrontation with host Lucy Aharish.
- Haim Levinson temporarily filled Berkovich's radio slot during the suspension.
Israeli television and radio host Eyal Berkovich is set to return to the airwaves on Sunday, just one week after being suspended by Channel 13 following controversial remarks. Channel 13 decided to shorten his suspension, and Berkovich will rejoin journalist Moria Asraf on their current affairs program "Moria and Berko." Internal discussions between Berkovich and Channel 13's news management have reportedly resolved the issues that led to his temporary removal.
Berkovich's return marks a dual media comeback, as he will also resume his daily 11:00 AM radio show on 103FM with Arel Segall. Journalist Haim Levinson had filled in for him during the suspension, though Levinson's absence was reportedly unrelated to the Channel 13 incident.
The suspension stemmed from comments Berkovich made during a live broadcast last Saturday, where he questioned the doctoral degrees of American politician Abdul El-Sayed and Israeli Member of Knesset Ahmad Tibi, stating on air, "Everyone is given the title doctor, let him bring the certificate." This remark sparked widespread outrage on social media and calls for an apology from political figures.
Channel 13 responded swiftly, summoning Berkovich for an immediate clarification meeting, after which they announced his suspension, emphasizing that freedom of expression does not justify remarks that harm societal values. This incident follows a week of heightened internal tension for Berkovich, including a public confrontation with host Lucy Aharish that led to backstage turmoil and the postponement of an interview with him.
Channel 13 confirmed Berkovich's return but declined to provide further official comment. Industry observers will be watching closely on Sunday to see if Berkovich addresses the controversy or continues his broadcasts without comment.
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