In a horrifying incident just before Shabbat, a Channel 14 executive and his children were violently attacked by a group of protesters. Nathaniel Siman Tov, the representative of the owner of Channel 14, was driving with his wife and two young children when the protesters recognized him and launched a vicious assault on their vehicle.
The incident occurred last Friday, July 7, as Siman Tov was leaving his home in Ramat Hasharon. The demonstrators, who had previously demonstrated in front of Siman Tov’s house two months ago, blocked the road and attacked the car with sticks and flags, all while screaming at the family inside.
The situation became even more alarming when the protesters began clinging to the back window, directing their noise and aggression towards the two small children in the back seat. The frightened 3-year-old boy suffered from anxiety as a result of the traumatic experience.
Despite the presence of a few police officers at the scene, they struggled to handle the situation and remove the protesters from the road. The attack has sparked outrage and concern, with a complaint being filed with the Israel Police this morning regarding the incident.
This disturbing incident serves as a reminder of the dangers and violence that journalists and media professionals can face in the line of duty. Attacks on individuals and their families, motivated by political or ideological differences, have no place in a democratic society that values freedom of the press and expression.
The entire team at Channel 14 stands in solidarity with Nathaniel Siman Tov and his family, condemning this deplorable act of aggression. It is our hope that swift action will be taken by the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of journalists and their families.
We urge the public to respect the rights and well-being of individuals working in the media industry, who play a crucial role in informing and empowering society. Acts of violence and intimidation against them only hinder the free flow of information and serve to undermine the foundations of a democratic society.
As this incident unfolds, we are reminded of the importance of fostering an environment where journalists and media professionals can carry out their work without fear of reprisals. Channel 14 remains committed to providing unbiased and accurate reporting, despite the risks posed to those involved. We stand firm in our dedication to the principles of freedom of the press and will not be deterred by acts of violence or intimidation.