Daphna Liel
Daphna Liel is a prominent Israeli political journalist and the chief political correspondent for Channel 12 News (N12). She is known for her extensive coverage of the Knesset, government coalitions, and internal Israeli political dynamics.
Daphna Liel serves as a central figure in Israeli political media, currently holding the position of chief political correspondent for Channel 12, Israel's most-watched news outlet. Her reporting frequently breaks significant developments within the Knesset and the Prime Minister's Office, making her a key source for understanding the legislative and coalition maneuvers that define Israeli governance. In recent coverage, Liel has been at the forefront of reporting on the contentious legislative efforts following the October 7 massacre. She provided critical analysis of the bill to establish a political commission of inquiry into the failures surrounding the attack. Her reporting highlighted a specific clause allowing the commission to operate with a minimal quorum of three members; she noted that if the opposition follows through on its boycott of the panel, the commission would effectively fall under the exclusive control of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition. Liel also closely tracks internal coalition friction. In June and July 2026, she reported on the high-stakes votes surrounding the 'Basic Law: Torah Study,' a significant piece of legislation for Haredi parties. Her reporting detailed the 'commotion in the plenum' and identified coalition members who voted against the government's position, highlighting the fragility of the current political alliance. Most recently, on July 9, 2026, Liel reported on a brewing crisis as Likud pushed for a last-minute reservation to the Torah Study law intended to protect IDF servicemembers, a move opposed by Haredi factions. Beyond her television work, Liel is a frequent commentator on political strategy and the host of the 'Making Politics' podcast, where she provides deeper context on the personalities and power struggles within the Israeli parliament.