What’s Happening
The Tel Aviv District Court has ordered journalist Guy Lerer, Reshet, and Channel 13 to pay 410,000 NIS to Yesh Atid MK Elazar Stern for defamation. Stern, a significant figure in Israeli politics, was maligned in six separate instances where the journalist allegedly misrepresented his handling of sexual harassment complaints.
Why It Matters
This case underscores the importance of responsible journalism, especially when dealing with sensitive matters during critical times such as a candidate’s run for a high-profile public role. The defamatory statements against Stern came at a crucial time when he was a candidate for the Jewish Agency’s chairmanship, ramping up the damage inflicted on his reputation.
The Court’s Ruling
The court highlighted substantial deficiencies in the defendants’ journalistic practices, emphasizing that their publications could not be legally protected. These flaws compounded by the timing of the reports significantly damaged Stern’s public image. Stern withdrew from the race for the Jewish Agency chairmanship in October 2021 amid the spread of these allegations.
Judicial Remarks
The court was particularly critical of the defendants’ failure to maintain journalistic integrity. “The defendant’s behavior concerning this publication was egregious,” the court stated, noting that a responsible media outlet should have corrected errors and issued an apology, rather than distorting allegations further.
Stern’s Response
Elazar Stern expressed relief and vindication following the ruling, asserting that the defamatory claims had unjustly tarnished his reputation. He reiterated his commitment to addressing sexual harassment robustly and lamented the distress caused to him and his family. Stern also emphasized the decision’s broader implications for upholding standards of accountable journalism.
A Call for Responsible Journalism
Following the verdict, Stern called on the media to fulfill its crucial role responsibly, highlighting the media’s responsibility in ensuring public trust. He called on those whom the media wronged to seek justice, underscoring the importance of a fearless and transparent public service.
This story was first published on jpost.com.