Culture Minister Miki Zohar Uses Social Media to Promote Netanyahu and Criticize Opponents Amid Cultural Funding Controversies

Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar has actively used social media throughout 2026 to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and attack political opponents, while steering cultural funding toward projects aligned with his right-wing views. Analysis by Shomrim and N12 shows Zohar posted seven times praising Netanyahu’s leadership, nine times condemning what he calls Netanyahu’s persecution, and several posts defending Netanyahu’s family and close aides. Conversely, he frequently criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, cultural institutions, and left-wing creators.

Zohar emphasized his support for IDF soldiers, tweeting 22 times about military service and refusing to fund films that he believes harm the army’s reputation. He also condemned ultra-Orthodox draft protests but avoided broader commentary on the issue. Since June 2026, he posted multiple times against Iran and Lebanon, adopting a hawkish tone despite not holding the defense portfolio.

As Culture Minister, Zohar has used his authority to cancel or withhold state funding from cultural events and films he deems politically biased or disrespectful to Israel and its soldiers. He promoted a "culture revolution" prioritizing popular entertainment over artistic quality, aiming to reduce funding for left-wing creators and politically critical works. For example, he canceled funding for the Ophir Awards ceremony and opposed events like the "Solidarity Festival" for cinema and human rights.

Zohar’s social media also highlighted his political battles, including defending Netanyahu’s son Yair from criticism, demanding the dismissal of a football judges’ union head for political remarks, and condemning planned protests near Netanyahu’s son’s wedding. He has been investigated for alleged corruption related to the Histadrut union primaries but publicly dismissed the probes as politically motivated.

In response to criticism, Zohar stated that his cultural reforms aim to maximize public benefit by funding films that attract Israeli audiences rather than those favored by international festivals. He denied any intent to censor but insisted state funds should not support works that "lie or defame IDF soldiers." He also clarified that event cancellations occur only after public complaints and with the Finance Ministry’s involvement. Zohar acknowledged his right-wing stance but emphasized his commitment to serving all Israeli citizens through broad cultural and sports investments.

This social media strategy and funding approach reflect Zohar’s efforts to consolidate support within the Likud base ahead of party primaries, while reshaping Israel’s cultural landscape along nationalist lines. The controversy continues as debates over artistic freedom, political influence, and cultural funding intensify in Israel.