Communications Minister Kara
Photo: Meir Ohayon
Communications Minister sorry after warning death for fake news
Frustrated over his failure to obtain a news broadcasting permit for the Likud-friendly Channel 20, Communications Minister Kara pledges to 'reform the media, save Channel 20,' threatens disseminators of fake news with death and apologizes shortly after.
Communications Minister Ayoob Kara (Likud) has apologized over what he says were misinterpreted comments warning that broadcasting "fake news" warrants capital punishment.
Kara said Friday at a Likud party retreat that "all those bringing fake news are bringing upon themselves a death sentence."
Communications Minister Kara at the Likud party retreat (Photo: Meir Ohayon)
Kara did not specifically state who or what he was referring to in his remarks, though he added that the Likud "will continue the reform in the media, save Channel 20 and roll back regulations."
He later apologized on Twitter, saying he was speaking figuratively and meant that false reports result in fewer consumers for media outlets.
Kara was accused Thursday by Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Council head Dr. Yifat Ben Hay-Segev of harassment after the minister resolved to encourage online bullying and threats against Ben Hay-Segev for her refusal to issue news broadcasting permit to Likud-friendly Channel 20.
Netanyahu has also lashed out at media over the past year dismissing some coverage of investigations into corruption allegations surrounding him as "fake news."
The long-ruling Israeli leader has denied any wrongdoing and calls the accusations a witch hunt orchestrated by a hostile media.
