Channel 13 Anchor's Phone Flooded With Protests During Netanyahu UN Speech
Channel 13 anchor Doria Lampel's phone was flooded with protest texts during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's UN speech broadcast, sparking a fresh debate over media coverage.
Political tensions surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address at the UN General Assembly in New York spilled over into the behind-the-scenes operations of Channel 13. While anchor Doria Lampel was managing the live broadcast in the studio, her personal mobile phone was bombarded with dozens of angry text messages from various numbers challenging the decision to air the speech.
According to media reporter Gil Mishali, viewers protesting the airtime given to the Prime Minister leaked Lampel's phone number and sent coordinated messages asking why the network was providing him with live propaganda and public relations time. The demonstrators demanded that journalists adopt a more critical stance, urging them to cover the speech, fact-check it, and provide context rather than acting as a backdrop.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu's overseas appearances frequently remain at the center of political and media discourse. The Prime Minister recently emphasized the importance of international experience and communication skills for an Israeli leader, particularly regarding the Iranian nuclear issue, noting that messages must be delivered fluently from global platforms including the UN and Congress.
Asked whether his remarks implied criticism of rival politicians such as Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu responded that command of English is crucial for anyone aspiring to lead Israel on the world stage. At the same time, the Prime Minister criticized Eisenkot's general capabilities, claiming he struggles to articulate ideas and has historically shied away from major decisions.
