Channel 14 Reporter Boasts of Knowing Exact Time of Iran War Before It Began

Hillel Biton Rozen, a military correspondent for Channel 14, boasted in a private WhatsApp group with IDF spokespersons that he knew the exact time of the start of Operation "Roaring Lion" before the conflict began. This revelation was reported by commentator Ben Caspit in Maariv. Despite claims by Shin Bet chief David Zini denying investigations into journalists, the agency collected communication data on reporters whom Prime Minister Netanyahu had complained about.

A senior security source described Yaakov Bardugo, a political operator close to Netanyahu who is pushing for an investigation against Channel 12 over leaks about "Roaring Lion," as effectively acting as "the enemy’s central alert system." Bardugo publicly hinted at imminent military operations live on air, violating censorship rules, which led to a formal complaint. Two days before the previous strike on Iran, Operation "Like a Dog," Bardugo stated on air that "the attack is about to happen," potentially revealing sensitive timing to adversaries.

Unlike Channel 14, Channel 12 and other broadcasters only reported live once the war had officially started. Bardugo recently met with Shin Bet chief Zini to pressure him to open an investigation against Channel 12. Bardugo admitted to the meeting, describing it as a lengthy discussion where he sought details about the probe. An additional Shin Bet official present at the meeting is reportedly a close relative of a well-known Channel 14 journalist.

Since the "Kataragate" and "Bild" affairs, Netanyahu has filed numerous complaints with Shin Bet against journalists critical of him, although he has never complained about leaks from his own associates that endangered forces and operations. These sensitive investigations require approval from the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara. Under former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, such probes were rare and only initiated in extreme cases.

Despite Zini’s public denials, investigative journalist Ronen Bergman revealed that Shin Bet and the Defense Security Authority used communication metadata to identify contacts with journalists Netanyahu complained about. The timeline also shows contradictions: the decision to investigate leaks was reportedly made before Bardugo’s meeting with Zini, but Zini only argued against opening an investigation during a cabinet meeting weeks later.

Shin Bet confirmed an investigation into the leak of operational details is underway and acknowledged Zini’s meeting with Bardugo, emphasizing that decisions are made professionally and independently. The agency stressed the probe aims to close security breaches within the defense establishment.