Story perspectives

Channel 13 Sale Sparks Controversy Over Media Independence

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Len Blavatnik, controlling shareholder of Israel's Channel 13, plans to sell to Patrick Drahi despite a tech-consortium offer.
The sale faces legal and union opposition over political intervention from Netanyahu's circle.
The Union of Journalists says sale structure circumvents laws and endangers Channel 13's independence.
Drahi, facing significant debts, has cut jobs at his other media outlet, i24NEWS.
Critics fear a Drahi takeover will align Channel 13 with government narratives.

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Story summary

Len Blavatnik, controlling shareholder of Israel's Channel 13, plans to sell to Patrick Drahi despite a tech-consortium offer.
The sale faces legal and union opposition over political intervention from Netanyahu's circle.
The Union of Journalists says sale structure circumvents laws and endangers Channel 13's independence.
Drahi, facing significant debts, has cut jobs at his other media outlet, i24NEWS.
Critics fear a Drahi takeover will align Channel 13 with government narratives.