Haaretz

Haaretz: A Beacon of Liberalism in Israel

Imagine a newspaper that has been shaping the discourse for over a century, standing as a pillar of liberal thought and critical journalism. That’s Haaretz, an Israeli newspaper with a rich history dating back to 1918.

The Genesis of Haaretz

Haaretz was born in a time when the land of Israel was still under British military rule. Initially sponsored by the British, it quickly transformed into a voice for socialist-oriented Zionists. This transformation marked the beginning of its journey as a newspaper that would champion liberal causes and provide a platform for diverse voices.

Ownership and Influence

In 2019, the Schocken family took over Haaretz, acquiring a majority stake in the paper. This move solidified their influence on one of Israel’s most respected newspapers. The remaining shares were held by Leonid Nevzlin, ensuring that ownership remained diverse.

Strikes and Controversies

The year 2012 saw Haaretz face a significant challenge when its employees went on strike to protest planned layoffs. This strike not only disrupted the newspaper’s operations but also highlighted the tension between management and labor within the industry.

Editorial Policies and Stances

Gershom Schocken, who served as editor-in-chief from 1939 to 1990, defined Haaretz’s editorial policy. Today, under Aluf Benn, the newspaper continues its liberal stance on both domestic and international issues.

Key Stances

Haaretz is known for its opposition to Israeli control over Palestinian territories and its support for peace initiatives. It takes a moderate approach in foreign policy and security matters, aligning with the views of many intellectuals and political elites in Israel.

Readership and Influence

In 2022, Haaretz was found to have the third-largest readership in Israel, with an exposure rate of 4.7%. Despite its smaller circulation compared to other major newspapers, it is widely regarded as one of the most influential daily papers due to its extensive coverage and critical analysis.

Content and Style

The newspaper’s content includes feature articles on social and environmental issues, investigative reporting, book reviews, and political analysis. Haaretz’s smaller headlines and print size set it apart from other mass circulation papers in Israel, allowing for more space dedicated to detailed discussions.

Challenges and Criticisms

In recent years, Haaretz has faced criticism for publishing controversial articles that have led to a decline in advertising revenue. Some critics argue that the newspaper’s perceived detachment from Israeli politics has contributed to its loss of influence. Additionally, it has been accused of making factual errors without correcting them.

Government Boycott

A significant blow came when the Israeli government ordered a boycott of Haaretz by government officials and banned government advertising with the newspaper in November 2024. This move underscores the political tensions surrounding the paper’s editorial stance.

Conclusion

Haaretz stands as a testament to the enduring power of liberal journalism in shaping public opinion and driving change. Despite facing challenges, it continues to be a voice for critical thinking and progressive ideas in Israel. Will Haaretz maintain its influence or adapt to new realities? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: it remains an essential part of the Israeli media landscape.