Ofira Assayag Praises 'Fauda' Star Lior Raz for Defending Diaspora Jews

Prominent Israeli television host Ofira Assayag has used her influential social media presence to deliver warm public praise to "Fauda" creator and actor Lior Raz, commending his courageous stance against global antisemitism during a major diaspora conference.

Addressing thousands of participants at the annual JNF-USA conference in San Diego, California, Raz leveraged his international platform to urge diaspora Jews to display profound communal pride. The acclaimed actor specifically called on community members not to remove traditional Jewish symbols, such as mezuzahs, from their doorposts, reassuring them that the Jewish people remain steadfast in the face of rising hostility worldwide.

Captivated by the powerful address, Assayag shared excerpts of the speech on her personal WhatsApp channel under the heading of cultural resilience. Addressing Raz directly, she wrote: "I have huge respect for Lior Raz: you have a global platform, and you choose to use it to stand by Jews who are afraid even to leave a mezuzah on the door. You spoke to them at eye level and reminded them they have reason to be proud. Huge respect, Lior."

Media Context and Recent Commentary

Assayag, who hosts a popular program on Keshet 12, is well known for her outspoken commentary on public and social affairs. Her latest post follows another viral remark on her channel regarding her former co-host, Eyal Berkovich, who recently returned to television and radio following a one-week suspension by Channel 13 management. Berkovich had faced disciplinary action after making controversial on-air remarks questioning the academic degrees of US politician Abdul El-Sayed and MK Ahmad Tibi. Assayag's heartfelt endorsement of Raz highlights how influential cultural figures can powerfully leverage global recognition to support Jewish communities abroad.