Political storm after only Channel 14 broadcasts were removed from hospitals
Following demands from left-wing activists to block Channel 14 in hospitals, Meir and Beilinson medical centers announced a switch to nature and children's programming. However, an investigation revealed that Channels 12 and 13 remained on air, sparking sharp political backlash.
After left-wing activists demanded to black out Channel 14 broadcasts in hospitals, the management of Meir and Beilinson hospitals announced that they would stop broadcasting all news channels and switch to nature and children's content only. However, in practice, an investigation by Channel 14 News revealed a completely different picture: while Channel 14 was indeed removed from the screens, Channels 12 and 13 continued to be broadcast as usual. This discovery sparked sharp reactions today, Monday, in the political system.
MK Zvi Sukkot, Chairman of the Education, Culture and Sports Committee, attacked the move:
"The masks are falling again. In the name of 'enlightenment' and protecting the public, left-wing activists demand to boycott one news channel — but when it comes to Channels 12 and 13, suddenly the rules of equality and neutrality disappear."
Sukkot added that this is an attempt to dictate to the public which opinions are legitimate, declaring: "We will not let them turn Israel into a country where one side holds the remote control."
On the other hand, MK Simon Davidson from Yesh Atid chose to support the hospitals' decision without addressing the fact that Channels 12 and 13 were actually documented on the screens:
"I respect and embrace the hospital management's decision. A hospital is not a place for arguments and negative emotions. My suggestion is to watch the sports channel."
Beilinson Hospital responded: "Following the editorial board's inquiry, an additional review was conducted to ensure that the screens are broadcasting only nature content and that no malfunction occurred." The Meir Medical Center stated: "The institution is apolitical and it was decided to switch to nature and children's content to maintain a pleasant environment." They further added that as part of a complex process, the channels were set, and they continue to carry out regular checks to address any malfunction discovered.
