ILOwnership & classification
Founded: 1919
Ownership
Haaretz is controlled by the Schocken family, descendants of German-Jewish businessman Salman Schocken who bought the paper in 1935; his son Gershom edited it for over 50 years and Amos Schocken is the current publisher. After buying out German publisher M. DuMont Schauberg's stake in December 2019, the Schocken family holds about 75% of the Haaretz Group. The remaining roughly 25% is owned by Russian-Israeli businessman Leonid Nevzlin.
Funding
Financed commercially through a digital subscription paywall (Hebrew and English editions), print sales and advertising, supplemented by the private capital of its family and minority owners. It receives no state or party funding.
Affiliation & stance
Haaretz is privately and family-owned with no party or government control, and is known for its liberal, left-leaning editorial line that is frequently critical of Israeli government policy. Its independent commercial ownership and editorial autonomy make it INDEPENDENT; the site's INDEPENDENT/LEFT labels are accurate.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Lean Progressivebased on 466
70/100
Factual
63/100
Objective
474
Articles
474
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
U.K. Green Party Votes Against Israel as Jewish State: 'Zionism Is Racism'
The U.K. Green Party has voted against recognizing Israel as a Jewish state, citing the claim that 'Zionism is racism.' This stance aligns with broader international criticism of Zionism as a form of racial discrimination, though such views remain controversial within academic and political circles. The decision reflects the party’s progressive values and its alignment with anti-racist principles. Critics argue that equating Zionism with racism oversimplifies complex historical and political issues, while supporters see it as a necessary challenge to systemic inequality. The move highlights ongoing debates over the definition of racism and the role of national identity in global politics.
Analysis • October 7 culprits sit ashen faced but inwardly celebrate their own survival
The article analyzes the psychological state of individuals involved in the October 7 incident, describing them as appearing somber yet internally reflecting on their survival. It suggests a complex emotional dynamic where outward appearances contrast with internal feelings of relief or satisfaction. The piece focuses on the personal and psychological impact rather than providing detailed contextual background or broader implications.
Israeli elections 2026 • New far-right party falls below electoral threshold for first time in poll
In a recent poll ahead of the 2026 Israeli elections, a new far-right political party has failed to meet the electoral threshold required to enter parliament for the first time. This development marks a significant shift in the political landscape, indicating potential changes in voter preferences or the effectiveness of the party's campaign strategies. The failure to cross the threshold could influence the overall composition of the Knesset and impact the balance of power among existing parties. The poll reflects current trends and expectations leading up to the upcoming election.
Editorial | Israel's right-wing government is placing our education and future at risk
The editorial published by Haaretz criticizes Israel's right-wing government for endangering the country's educational system and future. The piece argues that current policies threaten the quality of education and long-term prospects for Israeli citizens. It highlights concerns over curriculum changes, resource allocation, and ideological influences within the education sector. The editorial calls for urgent reforms to safeguard the integrity of education and ensure a stable future for the nation.
Inside the Strategies Shaping the Israeli Election's Final Stretch
The article discusses the final stages of the Israeli election campaign, focusing on the strategies employed by various political parties to influence voter behavior. It highlights the increasing polarization among voters and the efforts of different factions to position themselves as the best choice for leadership. The piece examines how candidates are using targeted messaging, grassroots mobilization, and media engagement to gain an advantage. It also touches on the role of social media in shaping public opinion during this critical period. While the article provides insight into the dynamics of the election, it does not take a clear ideological stance.
U.K. adviser visited Israel in failed bid to prevent Jerusalem consulate closure
The article reports that a British adviser traveled to Israel in an attempt to prevent the closure of the British consulate in Jerusalem. The visit was part of efforts to address concerns over the potential impact of the closure on diplomatic relations and bilateral cooperation between the UK and Israel. Despite these efforts, the closure proceeded, highlighting ongoing tensions and challenges in maintaining diplomatic infrastructure in the region.
Israel's election panel tells Netanyahu to remove campaign videos showing IDF
Israel's Central Elections Committee has instructed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to remove campaign videos that depict members of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The directive comes amid concerns over the potential misuse of military imagery in political messaging during the upcoming election period. Netanyahu's campaign had previously used such videos to highlight national security efforts, but the committee argues that this could blur the line between political advocacy and military promotion. The decision reflects ongoing debates about the ethical boundaries of political campaigning in Israel, particularly regarding the portrayal of armed forces. The ruling underscores the regulatory framework governing electoral campaigns and the scrutiny placed on candidates' use of state-related symbols.
Passenger on Flydubai flight: 'The pilot was stabbed, we saw blood, we thought we wouldn't make it out alive'
A passenger on a Flydubai flight described a terrifying experience during which the pilot was stabbed, leading to visible blood and fears among passengers that they might not survive the situation. The incident reportedly occurred mid-flight, prompting emergency procedures and raising concerns about safety protocols. While the exact circumstances and outcomes remain unclear based on the provided information, the account highlights the alarming nature of the event and the immediate panic experienced by those onboard.
Ireland's Head Soccer Coach Asks to Prevent Future Matches Against Israel
The head soccer coach of Ireland has requested to prevent future international matches against Israeli teams, citing concerns related to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The request reflects growing tensions within the sports community regarding participation in games involving Israeli athletes and teams. While the specific reasons for the request were not detailed in the article, it highlights broader discussions about the role of sports in politically sensitive contexts. This issue has sparked debate among sports organizations and policymakers about balancing athletic competition with ethical considerations.
Opinion | At a crucial and defining moment, Israel's Democrats made a dangerous mistake
The opinion piece published by Haaretz criticizes Israel's Democratic Party for making a significant error during a critical period. The author argues that this misstep could have major implications for the country's political landscape and democratic processes. The article frames the decision as a dangerous one, suggesting it undermines the stability and direction of Israeli democracy. While the specific nature of the mistake is not detailed in the provided text, the tone implies a serious consequence for the party's actions.
'Targeting women and children' • Israeli professor indicted for plotting mass-casualty terror attacks on Arabs
An Israeli professor has been indicted for allegedly planning mass-casualty terrorist attacks targeting Arab civilians, specifically women and children. The charges suggest the individual was involved in plotting attacks that would cause significant harm to non-combatants. This case highlights concerns over domestic terrorism within Israel and raises questions about the motivations behind such actions. The indictment indicates that authorities have gathered enough evidence to formally charge the professor, signaling a serious legal response to potential threats against civilian populations.
Israeli Official in Charge of Screening Foreign Airline Crews Has a Second Job
An Israeli official responsible for screening foreign airline crews has been revealed to hold a second job, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. The individual oversees the vetting process for foreign aviation personnel entering Israel, ensuring they meet security and regulatory standards. The revelation highlights concerns about transparency and accountability within governmental oversight roles. While the specific nature of the second job was not detailed in the report, the disclosure has prompted calls for greater scrutiny of officials' additional responsibilities. This situation underscores broader issues regarding the separation of duties in public service.
The Sexual Harassment Case That Rocked Hebrew University Ends in Tragedy
A sexual harassment case at Hebrew University, which had previously caused significant controversy and upheaval, has ended in tragedy. The incident has drawn attention to ongoing issues of misconduct within academic institutions and has sparked discussions about accountability and justice in such settings. While specific details of the case are not provided in this excerpt, the outcome highlights the serious consequences faced by those involved. This event has further emphasized the need for transparency and proper handling of such sensitive matters.