Nir Barkat vs. Channel 12: "They are trying to eliminate me"
Ahead of the Likud primaries, Minister of Economy Nir Barkat has launched a campaign against Channel 12, accusing the outlet of political persecution. The conflict is marked by ongoing mutual lawsuits.
Minister of Economy and Industry, MK Nir Barkat, is launching a new campaign ahead of the primaries, centering on his conflict with Channel 12 News under the slogan: "Whoever does not choose Barkat - chooses Diba 12" (a play on words: 'diba' in Hebrew means 'libel'). This comes against the backdrop of several reports and investigations on Channel 12, which Barkat's headquarters define as a timed political assassination attempt and a move to sow discord among Likud members on the eve of the party's internal elections, with mutual lawsuits filed between the parties.
Minister Nir Barkat stated upon the launch of the campaign:
"They are trying to eliminate me in the primaries because I did not stay silent. Since I defended the fighters of Force 100 and led a determined struggle against Channel 12 News, they have been publishing false investigations and slander about me non-stop."
The Minister of Economy further added:
"For 24 years I have been serving the public out of faith and mission and without asking for anything in return. I am here because I love the country and the people of Israel with all my heart. Do not let Diba 12 and elements in the media determine the list for Likud."
Alongside the launch of the slogan, according to Nir Barkat's headquarters, there has been widespread mobilization in the right-wing camp in support of Barkat in recent days. Fighters of Force 100, alongside prominent national camp activists, ministers, and MKs, have come to his defense, making it clear that the public understands the motives behind the media attack and will not allow foreign considerations to dictate the ballot results in Likud.
