Reshet 13 in Turmoil: Inside the Studio Clash and Incitement Accusations
Reshet 13 faces an internal crisis after Barak Ravid exposed harsh criticism of Moria Asraf and Eyal Berko's show, triggered by on-air political stances and a heated clash between Berko and Lucy Ahrish.
Barak Ravid, Channel 12 foreign affairs analyst, Axios senior political correspondent, and CNN analyst, has exposed the internal crisis shaking Reshet 13, highlighting fierce behind-the-scenes criticism. In a social media post, Ravid quoted a high-ranking network official who severely condemned the program hosted by Moria Asraf and Eyal Berko, describing it as an ongoing stream of incitement.
The controversy erupts amid intense backlash from left-leaning circles and network insiders regarding the hosts' editorial line since the elections. Asraf and Berko openly expressed strong opposition to forming a government backed by Arab parties, advocating instead for a unity government without them. Tensions peaked when Berko declared on air that amid the political deadlock and the absence of a 61-seat majority for any bloc, Benjamin Netanyahu should remain prime minister.
Clash in the Studio and Management Silence
Internal friction reached a boiling point during a confrontation with anchor Lucy Ahrish. Following the exit polls, Asraf reported from the Likud headquarters that there were 90 Zionist mandates. Denied airtime to respond, Ahrish angrily stormed off the set, declaring she refused to serve as anyone's token Arab or decorative potted plant.
During the commercial break, a bitter shouting match ensued, with Berko telling Ahrish to go yell in her village. Ahrish burst into tears, demanded disciplinary action, and called out management's silence. Meanwhile, Asraf defended the broadcast on Instagram, asking when calling for a Zionist government became labeled as racism.
