Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat Launches Legal Aid Fund Against Channel 12 News

Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat has initiated a new campaign targeting Channel 12 News, urging individuals who claim to have been harmed by the channel's reports to file defamation lawsuits. Barkat established the "Defamation Fund 12," which he finances personally with two million shekels, to provide legal assistance to those affected by Channel 12's publications or lawsuits filed by the company.

The campaign, launched on July 9, 2026, features billboards and digital platforms directing the public to the fund's website for legal aid requests. This move intensifies the ongoing conflict between Barkat and Channel 12, following a series of reports about his business dealings and alleged corruption, which Barkat denies.

In recent months, Barkat has filed multiple defamation suits against Channel 12, including a 12 million shekel claim related to a broadcast about him. Another lawsuit involving the Knesset Speaker and several government ministers is also underway. Last week, a defamation suit Barkat filed against Channel 12 was dismissed, prompting him to file a new suit demanding one million shekels.

Channel 12 has rejected Barkat's accusations, asserting that its reporting is based on professional journalism and that the lawsuits lack merit. Legal proceedings between Barkat and Channel 12 continue in court. Barkat's latest campaign marks a significant escalation by publicly enlisting the general public's support through funded legal action against the news outlet.