Story perspectives

Netanyahu Criticized for Appointing TV Authority Chair Amid Trial

3/30/2026

Center

Netanyahu Faces Criticism

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism over appointing Dr. Yifat Ben Hay-Segev as chair of the Second Authority for Television and Radio.
Deputy Attorney-General Gil Limon says Netanyahu should have avoided involvement because of his criminal trial.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett aims to replace Netanyahu, saying the government has failed on national security.
Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot compete for opposition leadership as elections approach.

Left

Knesset Expands Rabbinical Authority

The Israeli Knesset passed a law expanding rabbinical courts' civil-dispute authority previously held by secular courts.
Ultra-Orthodox parties Shas and United Torah Judaism backed the measure.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticized the law and vowed to repeal it if he regains power.
Critics say the law undermines individual rights and analysts view it as part of a shift toward religious influence in governance amid national security concerns.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 Nation-State Law, which defined Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people, intensified existing tensions between secular and religious factions. This law, coupled with the recent expansion of rabbinical courts' authority, has raised concerns among Arab citizens, with 70% feeling marginalized. As national security issues grow, these developments may further polarize Israeli society and impact individual rights.

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Netanyahu Faces Criticism

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism over appointing Dr. Yifat Ben Hay-Segev as chair of the Second Authority for Television and Radio.
Deputy Attorney-General Gil Limon says Netanyahu should have avoided involvement because of his criminal trial.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett aims to replace Netanyahu, saying the government has failed on national security.
Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot compete for opposition leadership as elections approach.

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