The Enduring Impact of Yaakov Ahimeir: An Exclusive Interview

Yaakov Ahimeir, one of the most seasoned and prominent journalists in Israeli media, realized his passion for journalism after a university classmate sought his help. "Back then, I was a history student at the Hebrew University," he recalls. "A classmate who was blind and physically challenged asked for assistance, and several of us volunteered to record the study materials for him. It wasn't as simple as it is today."

During these recordings, Ahimeir found himself intrigued by a fellow student who worked at 'Kol Yisrael'. "I became curious about his job," he explains, "and he took me to visit the newsroom, sparking my interest in journalism."

Shortly after, Ahimeir joined 'Kol Yisrael', then one of the sole media outlets in Israel, where he started as a junior news editor, eventually becoming one of its leading journalists.

A Conversation with Biden

Throughout the years, Yaakov Ahimeir has been influential in Israeli journalism, achieving milestones and interviewing key political figures. He was notably one of the few journalists from the right wing in prominent positions during the 1970s and 1980s.

With the release of his first book, "Up Until Now, Yaakov Ahimeir - My Life in the Shadow of ABA," Ahimeir reflects on the inspiration from his father. His father, known as ABA Ahimeir, was a leader in the Revisionist movement under Ze'ev Jabotinsky and was also a journalist and publicist.

"From a young age, I was drawn to journalism," Ahimeir shares, "starting with writing for 'Youth Freedom', a serious paper for young people."

Ahimeir also worked for the Hebrew division of the BBC in London before returning to 'Kol Yisrael'. Later, he transitioned to television as a correspondent for the First Channel.

Ahimeir held senior positions in Israeli media, including editor roles at the First Channel and becoming the chief editor of 'Mabat L'khadashot'. He was later appointed as the channel's first correspondent in Washington.

During his time in the US, Ahimeir attended White House press conferences and studied the American political system in-depth, witnessing historic events like the Watergate scandal.

Ahimeir met and interviewed Joe Biden when he was a rising senator. "I was impressed by his pro-Israel stance and expected him to be a significant political figure, though I couldn't predict he'd become president."

(Photo: Moshe Shai, Flash 90)

First Interview with Begin

Recalling interviews with many Israeli leaders, Ahimeir notably connected with Rabin's honest and reserved nature. "Rabin's live resignation during an interview I conducted was a surprise and is a testament to his integrity," Ahimeir says.

Remembering interviews with Netanyahu, Ahimeir shares, "I've interviewed him several times. He reminded me that during an early interview, I predicted his future as Prime Minister."

Ahimeir's career highlights include being the first to interview Menachem Begin post-election victory, a reflection of the unique media landscape at the time.

"Channel 14 is Important and Legitimate"

While most of his peers leaned left, Ahimeir stood as a right-wing voice in Israeli media. Today, with a diverse media landscape, Channel 14 represents a significant right-leaning influence.

"I recall being one of the few who celebrated with Begin's win," Ahimeir notes. Despite differing political views, fairness remained his reporting standard.

"I believe Channel 14 holds value. Its presence affirms that media can reflect a variety of political views, including right-wing perspectives."