Joint List MP: Channel 13 hosts question medical degree on air

Ahmad Tibi, a member of the Joint List and a trained physician, has issued a formal demand for 150,000 shekels in compensation from Eyal Berkovic and Moria Asraf, the hosts of the Channel 13 program 'Moria and Berko.' The dispute centers on remarks made during a broadcast on Saturday, November 7, where the hosts questioned the validity of Tibi’s medical degree. Tibi’s attorney, Gilad Barnea, sent a warning letter on Sunday, characterizing the on-air comments as offensive, humiliating, and racist.

The incident began when the hosts discussed American politician Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. Berkovic interrupted the segment to ask if El-Sayed was actually a doctor, noting that the title is sometimes given broadly. Asraf laughed and remarked that El-Sayed was not just another 'dostri' but a genuine doctor. The conversation quickly shifted to Tibi, with Berkovic suggesting that Tibi should bring his diploma to prove his credentials. Asraf added that her own father would have prayed for her to finish her bachelor's degree, implying a hierarchy of academic achievement.

Reporter Suleiman Maswadeh, who was present on the show, attempted to correct the hosts. He stated that Tibi is also a doctor and had been practicing as one. Berkovic remained unconvinced, asserting that everyone claims to be a doctor. He then turned to Asraf and asked what she was a doctor of, to which she replied with a laugh about her father's wishes for her education. Tibi views this exchange as a deliberate attack on his professional standing and reputation.

In the letter, Barnea argues that the remarks constitute defamation under Israeli law. The attorney contends that the comments expose Tibi to public ridicule and damage his professional image. Tibi has stated that any compensation he receives will be donated to scholarships for students in need. The letter demands that the hosts and the broadcast companies issue an explicit and detailed retraction and apology during the next episode of the program.

The demand specifies that the apology must receive the same prominence and exposure as the original remarks. Additionally, Tibi wants the segment removed from all online platforms, archives, and social media accounts controlled by the hosts and the network. The letter gives the recipients seven days from its receipt to comply with these demands.

If the hosts do not comply, Barnea warns that Tibi will pursue legal action. This includes filing a claim for monetary compensation under Israel's Defamation Law, which allows damages to be sought without proof of actual harm. No lawsuit has been filed at this stage, and the matter remains a formal warning ahead of potential legal proceedings.

Channel 13 News responded to the dispute by stating that there is no substance to the claims. The network noted that anyone who watched the broadcast could understand that there was no doubt Tibi is a doctor, including the fact that Asraf acknowledged his status herself.