Journalist Ayala Hasson Resigns from Public Broadcaster Kan

Prominent Israeli journalist Ayala Hasson has announced her departure from the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan), citing severe pressure, an ultimatum to issue a dictated apology, and attempts to silence independent voices. Her resignation follows a recent controversy sparked by remarks made during a radio interview regarding political figures and Bedouin women.

In a statement published on her X account, Hasson explained her decision to step down, stating that she refuses to be part of an institution that seeks to suppress prominent segments of the Israeli public to appease specific political factions. She noted that an ultimatum demanding a pre-scripted apology laid bare the extent to which journalistic independence within the corporation has been compromised. Despite her departure, Hasson confirmed she intends to return to television screens soon, noting she has already received multiple offers for her next professional chapter.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir strongly criticized the public broadcaster following the announcement, voicing praise for Hasson's career. In a statement, Ben Gvir described her departure as a badge of shame for an institution allegedly unable to tolerate independent viewpoints. He commended her courageous journalism and claimed that the backlash against her reflects broader systemic issues regarding freedom of expression and political agendas in media.

Ayala Hasson is one of Israel's most prominent and influential veteran broadcasters and investigative journalists. Throughout her extensive career, she has anchored major news programs and served in senior editorial roles across several leading media networks before joining the public broadcaster.