A heated media discourse has recently emerged regarding retired Judge and attorney Etty Karay, following an interview she gave to journalist Omri Assenheim. The interview, which concerned the 'sex for appointments' affair previously linked to her name, triggered a wave of reactions, including sharp criticism from Attorney Dr. Haim Stanger. As reported by the 'ICE' website, Attorney Stanger chose to publish a post on social media criticizing Karay’s continued involvement in the affair.
According to Stanger, this is a repeated attempt to return to the headlines and gain public exposure. However, the comments written by Stanger went beyond substantive criticism of her public work or the content of the interview. In his post, the attorney referred to Karay's age and used personal descriptions regarding her physical appearance. Stanger claimed that using appearance and publicity is a tool she utilizes for self-promotion. The remarks raised questions among media figures regarding the necessity of incorporating personal matters into critical discourse.
In response to an inquiry from journalist Liora Goldberg-Polin on the matter, Attorney Stanger maintained his position that using appearance is a public relations tactic, and he therefore found it appropriate to address. Conversely, Etty Karay chose to respond to the remarks in a low-key manner, stating that she had not read the post in question and did not intend to do so. She added that she wishes Stanger, and others who choose to engage in the lives of others, health and pursuits that will make their lives full of interest.
This affair highlights the boundaries of public and legal discourse regarding personal versus substantive criticism. For the readers, the incident sharpens the tension that sometimes exists between freedom of speech and remarks directed at public figures, and how the individuals being criticized choose to respond. While Israeli law protects freedom of speech, personal remarks of the nature written in this case often spark a lively debate regarding the culture of discourse accepted in the public sphere and among legal professionals.