Egyptian Broadcaster Suspended After Interview with Israeli Journalist Gideon Levy

A public controversy erupted in Egypt following a phone interview between Egyptian media figure and author Ihab Qassem and Israeli journalist Gideon Levy on the program aired by Al Kahera Wal Nas channel. The Egyptian Journalists Syndicate banned Qassem from appearing in any media outlets and referred the matter for investigation, accusing him of violating ethical and professional codes by allowing Levy to speak without challenging or correcting his statements.

Simultaneously, the channel announced it removed the segment featuring Levy from broadcast and digital platforms pending a review of the circumstances surrounding its production and airing. The channel emphasized that this decision was made to uphold professional standards and Egypt’s national principles.

According to reports, the controversy centered on Levy’s remarks about the Sinai Peninsula. Levy, a columnist for the Israeli newspaper Haaretz known for his critical views on Israeli policies regarding Palestinians, stated he had visited Egypt 12 times and Sinai dozens of times. He claimed many Israelis do not consider Sinai part of Egypt but rather as beaches belonging to no one. Levy also said he stopped visiting Egypt years ago because he found the experience less comfortable for Israelis in cities like Cairo and Alexandria.

These comments sparked sharp criticism in Egypt, leading to the segment’s removal and disciplinary measures against the broadcaster Ihab Qassem.