Culture Minister Miki Zohar Uses Social Media to Promote Netanyahu and Criticize Left-Wing Creators

Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar has actively used his social media platforms throughout 2026 to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and attack political opponents and cultural institutions. Analysis by Shomrim and N12 reveals that Zohar dedicated seven posts to praising Netanyahu’s leadership, nine to defending him against legal investigations, and several more to his family and close aides. Conversely, he frequently targeted former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, cultural creators, and institutions he accuses of left-wing bias.

Zohar’s Twitter activity includes 22 posts emphasizing his support for IDF soldiers, highlighting his son’s military service, and opposing funding for films he claims harm the army’s reputation. He has condemned left-wing filmmakers and canceled state support for cultural events he deems politically biased, such as the Ophir Awards ceremony and certain film festivals. Zohar also launched an alternative film awards event, which faced boycotts from some artists.

Regarding politics, Zohar has called for halting the prosecution of Netanyahu and demanded full pardons, while criticizing the judiciary less frequently than some colleagues. He has publicly attacked Bennett, blaming him partly for the October 7 terror attacks, and disparaged left-wing cultural figures as "violent bullies." Despite controversy, Zohar insists he does not hide his right-wing views and that his cultural reforms prioritize popular Israeli audiences over international festival acclaim.

Zohar’s tenure has included increased funding for cultural and sports projects in the West Bank and peripheral areas, aligning with his political base. However, he has been investigated for alleged corruption related to the Histadrut union primaries. In response to criticism, Zohar’s office stated that funding decisions are based on public benefit and audience success, not political identity, and denied any intent to censor but emphasized opposition to films that defame IDF soldiers.

The minister’s social media strategy reflects a broader political agenda intertwining culture, nationalism, and loyalty to Netanyahu, while marginalizing dissenting voices in Israeli arts and public discourse.