Israeli Education Minister Condemns Hebrew University Professor's Anti-State Post

Education Minister Yoav Kish sent a sharp letter to Hebrew University President Tamir Shafir following the university's refusal to take action against a senior faculty member who posted a controversial message describing Israel as an "occupying country" and claiming "crime is work." Kish criticized the statements as "serious, outrageous, and unacceptable," emphasizing that freedom of expression cannot be used to defame the state or its soldiers.

Kish accused the professor of attempting to malign Israel and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) with baseless allegations, especially while soldiers protect citizens and fight terrorist groups. He acknowledged the importance of academic freedom but insisted it must not justify spreading false accusations or damaging Israel's reputation. Kish also rejected the university's defense that the professor's views were personal, stressing that as a senior faculty member with educational influence, such remarks require responsible leadership and public accountability.

The professor, Norman Matans, had published a post portraying Israel as an "occupying country" and alleging that security personnel deliberately harm medical teams and civilians, describing these actions as part of a systematic policy rather than isolated incidents. He also accused a senior security official of ordering the destruction of ambulances and linked him to deaths of civilians, including children, while mocking the prime minister.

The Hebrew University responded that the professor's statements do not reflect the institution's position and were made outside his official capacity. However, the university declined to take disciplinary measures. Kish demanded the university clarify what steps it would take in response. No official comments have been received yet from the professor or the Council for Higher Education.

This controversy highlights tensions between academic freedom and national loyalty amid ongoing debates over Israel's policies and security practices.