Israeli News Channels Would Cover The Odyssey Like Breaking News, Says Columnist

In a recent opinion piece, Israeli journalist Lior Dayan reflects on the unique nature of Israeli news media and its intense focus on current events. Dayan contrasts this with the more relaxed news consumption habits in the United States, where many people are less engaged with daily news broadcasts. He notes that in Israel, watching news is almost instinctual, akin to participating in national rituals like the Memorial Day siren.

Dayan imagines how the ancient Greek epic The Odyssey would be covered if it took place in modern Israel. He envisions Israeli news programs producing investigative reports, infographics, and heated panel discussions dissecting the Trojan Horse episode and Odysseus’s journey. Instead of traditional storytelling around palace tables, the public would be glued to TV debates and exposés on the political and social implications of the mythological events.

He humorously suggests that news segments would cover topics such as rising real estate prices in fictional regions like Givat Pilikta and the cultural shift among youth away from traditional sacrifices to gods like Poseidon and Athena. Dayan’s piece critiques the saturation of light, lifestyle-focused news in Israel while highlighting the country’s distinctive news culture that blends urgency, drama, and public engagement.

The article was published on August 22, 2026, by Channel 12, accompanied by images from the film adaptation of The Odyssey starring Matt Damon. Dayan’s commentary invites readers to consider how media shapes public perception and engagement with both contemporary and historical narratives.