Ariel Margalit
Photo: Channel 10
Israeli reporter appears on Iranian TV
Channel 10's Ariel Margalit invited to take part in debate held by Tehran's official television station; say felt free to speak his mind
Channel 10's London-based correspondent Ariel Margalit, who covered the UN anti-racism conference held in Geneva last week, was invited to take part in a televised panel on the Iranian government-sponsored television station Press TV.
This was the first time a reporter working for an Israeli network had been asked to take part in an Iranian broadcast.
The show, "Canon," also featured a Palestinian reporter and was aired Thursday.
"They saw my report for Channel 10, got hold of my contact numbers and asked me to take part in a panel on whether Israel is a racist country, and of course, on (Iranian President Mahmoud) Ahmadinejad's speech," he told Ynet.
The London studio was welcoming, he said, describing the experience as "fascinating": "Everyone seemed aware of the fact that this was an unusual event, but I was treated very well.
"They assured me that what I said would not be edited or altered… I was (verbally) attacked by the host several times during the show, but I think I was able to give my opinion clearly, and even criticize the Iranians. I felt I was free to speak my mind.
"I'm appreciative of the fact that they invited me, after all this is a government-sponsored television station. It's nice to know that they can listen to the other side. Granted, this wasn’t a groundbreaking dialogue, but still – I was given a platform."
Once the cameras were off, said Margalit, the three struck a conversation about the Iranian community in London, the UN conference and even day-to-day life.
"They were well versed on Israeli life and they asked if I missed Israel's incredible beaches. The host even said he noticed I cut my hair – apparently he watches (Channel 10's) evening news."
