MK Rotman Condemns Court's Leniency Toward Attacker of Channel 14 Journalist Motty Kastel

Chairman of the Knesset Constitution Committee, MK Simcha Rotman, sharply criticized the court's decision to overturn the conviction of a man who repeatedly assaulted Channel 14 journalist Motty Kastel. Rotman accused the judicial system of selective enforcement and stated, "The fish rots from the head," implying systemic issues at the top of the judiciary. He argued that the lenient treatment undermines justice and deterrence, emphasizing that if a right-wing individual had committed similar attacks, they would have faced actual imprisonment.

The case gained public attention after video evidence showed the defendant pushing, throwing cameras, and using sexually offensive language against Kastel and other right-wing activists. Despite the defendant admitting to the acts and being caught on camera, the court annulled his conviction last week. The judge justified this unusual decision by noting the defendant recently started working for the Movement for Quality Government and that his job could be harmed, in addition to his participation in cognitive therapy and expressions of remorse.

Kastel strongly criticized the ruling, warning it sends a dangerous message that legitimizes violence against journalists and reflects political bias. Rotman stressed that such judicial leniency damages the entire justice system's credibility and deterrent effect, especially when similar offenses by right-wing individuals would result in prison sentences.