Israeli Journalist Moria Asraf Denies Being 'Bibi Supporter,' Calls Label Racist

Moria Asraf, a journalist and co-host of the show "Moria and Berko" on Channel 13, responded to questions about whether she is a staunch supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, often referred to as a "Bibi supporter" or "Bibi-ist." In an interview with Omri Asenheim on his new program aired on Channel 13, Asraf rejected the label, calling those who insist she is a "Bibi-ist" either uninformed, deaf to her criticism, or racist. She highlighted her history of exposing issues during the recent war and her repeated criticism of Netanyahu, as well as her complicated relationship with his office over the years.

Asraf challenged the definition of "Bibi-ist," prompting Asenheim to explain it as someone who blindly follows Netanyahu regardless of events like the October 7 attacks or judicial reforms. She countered by suggesting that some voters may acknowledge Netanyahu’s faults but still consider him the best available option. Asenheim agreed that not all Netanyahu voters are "Bibi-ists," but argued that over time, more of his supporters fit that description.

The interview also touched on a past incident where Asraf was caught rifling through drawers in Netanyahu’s office during a meeting with his then-spokesperson, Omer Dostri. Following the event, the Prime Minister’s Office barred her from joining Netanyahu’s delegation to the United States. Channel 13 clarified that Asraf was invited by the spokesperson for work purposes and did not read or tamper with any documents.

This exchange underscores the ongoing debate in Israeli media about political loyalties and journalistic independence amid a polarized political climate.