Veteran Israeli Broadcaster Chaim Yavin Laid to Rest at 93

Chaim Yavin, a pioneering Israeli journalist and recipient of the Israel Prize for communication, was laid to rest on Friday at Givat Hashlosha cemetery. Yavin passed away at the age of 93 on Wednesday. His son, author Yonatan Yavin, eulogized him as a unifying figure across Israel's diverse political and social spectrum, calling him "the father of all." Yonatan highlighted his father's decades-long prominence in Israeli broadcast journalism, describing him as an unparalleled star in a demanding field.

Yavin's wife, Yossefa, also paid tribute, recalling his unwavering support during difficult times and the strong family values he instilled in their four children. She expressed pride in the values of honesty, diligence, dedication, and generosity that he passed on. Yavin was survived by Yossefa, three sons, Yonatan, Maiki, and Hagai, and a daughter, Dafna, who had died in October 2025.

As one of the founders of Israeli television, Yavin anchored the flagship news program "Mabat" for about 40 years, from its first broadcast in August 1968 until February 2008. Over his career, he also hosted other programs on Channel One, edited the news and investigative show "Mabat Sheni," and served as news department director and general manager of Israeli television. He received the Israel Prize in 1997 and a lifetime achievement award from the Israeli Academy of Film and Television in 2003.