A heated debate took place on Friday on the program "Friday with an Earbud," when in one of the panels, former MK Oren Hazan argued that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar should be sent to prison - especially in light of the events of the October massacre.
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The storm began after the cantor said: "I hear the things and I'm shocked. You haven't learned anything, it's amazing. If we were looking for another reason why Ronen Bar should be kicked in the head behind bars - this is the reason.".
The program's host, Keren Ozan, interrupted his words: "No, no, no. There's no such talk here. No one would talk like that about the head of the Shin Bet, it won't happen, sorry.".
Ozan demanded that he retract his statement. "I ask that you clarify things and not speak in such a way.".
In response, Hazan refused to apologize: "I think he is a criminal, that's my opinion. I don't back down.".
When the presenter tried to suggest another way to phrase it, Hazan said: "Today I say that the Shin Bet didn't learn anything. Those who pushed to transfer cash to Hamas - I think they were wrong.".
The other panel members joined the host's call for an apology - but Hazan insisted on not retracting it.
Keren Ozan made it clear that it would not allow such talk on its program - and the cantor responded: "I think the days of sitting down and being nice to people who led to such a terrible massacre are over. I understand that it is difficult to hear the truth.".
At this point, Ilan Lotan, a former senior Shin Bet official, left the panel - and Ozan ordered a break.
Upon the program's return from a long break, the host apologized: "I want to apologize for the things that were broadcast in this studio, especially in these days when the fighters are risking their lives in Gaza. Discourse must be respectful, not incite violence, certainly not speak disrespectfully to people who have contributed for many years to Israel's security, and I am personally very ashamed of the things that were said here. I would be happy if you would retract your statement.".
Even at this stage, Hazan did not back down: "I think Ronen Bar should be behind bars. That's my opinion, last time I checked, there is freedom of expression in a democratic country.".
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