Top 14 Must-Watch TV Channels In Israel

Hey guys! Ever wondered what's playing on the airwaves in Israel? Whether you're an Israeli expat looking to reconnect with your home country, a student of Israeli culture, or just someone curious about global television, this guide is for you. We're diving deep into the top 14 must-watch TV channels in Israel, giving you a glimpse into the nation's diverse programming landscape. Let's get started!

1. Keshet 12

Keshet 12 is a powerhouse in Israeli television, known for its high-quality dramas, reality shows, and news coverage. Think of it as the Israeli equivalent of a major network like NBC or BBC. Its primetime lineup often dominates the ratings, making it a central part of Israeli popular culture. One of the key factors contributing to Keshet 12's popularity is its investment in original content. They consistently produce high-budget dramas that tackle relevant social issues, keeping viewers engaged and sparking national conversations. For instance, shows like "Fauda," though originally aired on Yes, have found international acclaim and exemplify the kind of compelling storytelling Keshet 12 champions.

Beyond dramas, Keshet 12 is also a hub for reality TV. Shows like "Big Brother Israel" and "The Voice Israel" draw massive audiences, providing a platform for everyday Israelis to become household names. These shows are often adapted from international formats but are tailored to resonate with Israeli audiences, incorporating local humor and cultural nuances. The news coverage on Keshet 12 is another significant draw. With experienced journalists and up-to-the-minute reporting, the channel keeps viewers informed about the latest developments in Israel and around the world. Their news broadcasts are known for their comprehensive analysis and balanced perspectives, making them a trusted source of information for many Israelis.

Keshet 12 also understands the importance of digital platforms. They have a strong online presence, offering catch-up services and exclusive content for viewers who prefer to watch on their computers or mobile devices. This multi-platform approach ensures that Keshet 12 remains accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their viewing habits. Another aspect that sets Keshet 12 apart is its commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives. They actively seek out talent from different backgrounds and communities, ensuring that their programming reflects the rich tapestry of Israeli society. This inclusivity not only enriches their content but also helps to foster a sense of belonging among viewers.

2. Reshet 13

Reshet 13 is another major player in the Israeli television market, offering a mix of news, entertainment, and lifestyle programming. It's a direct competitor to Keshet 12, often vying for the top spot in viewership ratings. What makes Reshet 13 stand out is its focus on creating content that is both entertaining and informative. Their news division is particularly strong, providing in-depth coverage of political, economic, and social issues. Reshet 13's news programs are known for their investigative journalism and insightful interviews with key figures, making them a go-to source for viewers who want to stay informed about current events.

In addition to news, Reshet 13 offers a wide range of entertainment programming. They broadcast popular reality shows, game shows, and dramas, often adapting international formats for Israeli audiences. For example, shows like "Survivor Israel" and "The X Factor Israel" have been huge hits, attracting large audiences and generating buzz on social media. Reshet 13 also invests in original Israeli dramas, often exploring complex themes and characters. These dramas frequently tackle social issues, providing a platform for dialogue and debate. The channel's commitment to quality storytelling has earned it critical acclaim and a loyal viewership.

Lifestyle programming is another key component of Reshet 13's lineup. They offer a variety of shows focused on cooking, travel, fashion, and home improvement. These programs are designed to appeal to a broad audience, offering practical tips and inspiration for everyday life. Reshet 13 also understands the importance of digital platforms. They have a strong online presence, offering catch-up services and exclusive content for viewers who prefer to watch on their computers or mobile devices. This multi-platform approach ensures that Reshet 13 remains accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their viewing habits. Moreover, Reshet 13 is actively involved in community outreach and social initiatives. They partner with various organizations to support important causes and raise awareness about social issues. This commitment to social responsibility enhances the channel's reputation and strengthens its connection with viewers.

3. Kan 11

Kan 11 is Israel's public broadcaster, offering a diverse range of programming that includes news, current affairs, cultural programs, and children's shows. It's similar to PBS in the United States or the BBC in the United Kingdom. As a public broadcaster, Kan 11 has a mandate to serve the entire Israeli population, providing content that is both informative and entertaining. One of the key strengths of Kan 11 is its news coverage. They have a team of experienced journalists who provide in-depth reporting on local, national, and international events. Their news programs are known for their impartiality and accuracy, making them a trusted source of information for many Israelis.

Kan 11 also offers a wide range of cultural programs, showcasing Israeli music, art, literature, and history. These programs are designed to promote Israeli culture and heritage, fostering a sense of national identity and pride. They often feature interviews with leading artists, writers, and scholars, providing viewers with insights into the creative process and the cultural landscape of Israel. In addition to cultural programs, Kan 11 also broadcasts a variety of documentaries, exploring a wide range of topics from science and technology to social issues and human interest stories. These documentaries are often critically acclaimed, winning awards at international film festivals.

Kan 11 is committed to providing quality children's programming. They broadcast a variety of shows that are designed to be both entertaining and educational, helping children learn about the world around them. These shows often feature original Israeli characters and stories, promoting local culture and values. The channel also invests in digital platforms, offering catch-up services and exclusive content for viewers who prefer to watch online. This multi-platform approach ensures that Kan 11 remains accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their viewing habits. Furthermore, Kan 11 actively supports independent filmmakers and content creators, providing funding and opportunities for them to showcase their work. This support helps to foster creativity and innovation in the Israeli television industry.

4. Channel 9 (Israel Plus)

Channel 9, also known as Israel Plus, caters specifically to the Russian-speaking population in Israel. It provides news, entertainment, and cultural programming in Russian, helping to bridge the gap between Russian-speaking immigrants and Israeli society. Channel 9 plays a vital role in integrating Russian speakers into Israeli culture. The channel offers a variety of news programs that cover both Israeli and international events, providing Russian speakers with access to information in their native language. These news programs are often tailored to address the specific concerns and interests of the Russian-speaking community, helping them stay informed about issues that affect their lives.

In addition to news, Channel 9 broadcasts a wide range of entertainment programming, including Russian dramas, comedies, and reality shows. These shows are often imported from Russia, providing Russian speakers with access to the latest trends in Russian television. The channel also produces original Israeli content in Russian, reflecting the experiences and perspectives of Russian-speaking immigrants. Channel 9 also offers a variety of cultural programs, showcasing Russian music, art, literature, and history. These programs are designed to promote Russian culture and heritage, fostering a sense of identity and pride among Russian speakers in Israel. They often feature interviews with leading Russian artists, writers, and scholars, providing viewers with insights into the creative process and the cultural landscape of Russia.

The channel also invests in digital platforms, offering catch-up services and exclusive content for viewers who prefer to watch online. This multi-platform approach ensures that Channel 9 remains accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their viewing habits. Moreover, Channel 9 actively supports Russian-speaking artists and cultural organizations in Israel, providing funding and opportunities for them to showcase their work. This support helps to foster creativity and innovation within the Russian-speaking community.

5. Arutz HaYeladim (The Children's Channel)

Arutz HaYeladim, or The Children's Channel, is Israel's leading channel for kids and teens. It offers a wide range of programming, including animated shows, live-action series, and educational content. If you've got little ones, this is their go-to spot! What makes Arutz HaYeladim so popular is its focus on creating content that is both entertaining and educational. The channel broadcasts a variety of animated shows from around the world, dubbed into Hebrew. These shows are carefully selected to appeal to children of different ages and interests, providing them with hours of entertainment.

In addition to animated shows, Arutz HaYeladim also produces original live-action series. These series often feature Israeli actors and storylines, reflecting the experiences and perspectives of Israeli children. They often tackle important social issues, such as bullying, friendship, and family relationships, providing children with valuable life lessons. Arutz HaYeladim is committed to providing educational content. They broadcast a variety of shows that are designed to help children learn about science, history, and culture. These shows often feature interactive elements, encouraging children to engage with the content and learn in a fun and engaging way.

The channel also invests in digital platforms, offering catch-up services and exclusive content for viewers who prefer to watch online. This multi-platform approach ensures that Arutz HaYeladim remains accessible to a wide range of viewers, regardless of their viewing habits. Furthermore, Arutz HaYeladim actively supports children's charities and organizations in Israel, providing funding and raising awareness about important issues. This commitment to social responsibility enhances the channel's reputation and strengthens its connection with viewers.

6-14. Additional Channels

6. Yes TV Drama: For the drama enthusiasts. Offers a wide range of Israeli and international drama series.
7. Yes TV Comedy: Need a laugh? This channel is dedicated to comedy shows and sitcoms.
8. Hot 3: Another channel with a great selection of drama and comedy series.
9. Kan Hinuchit: Educational programming for children and youth.
10. Channel 20: Focuses on Jewish heritage and tradition.
11. I24news: An international news channel broadcasting in English, French, and Arabic.
12. Music Channel 24: All about music, with music videos, interviews, and live performances.
13. Ego Total: Entertainment channel for men.
14. Viva: A channel dedicated to telenovelas.

So there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the Israeli TV landscape! From news and dramas to kids' shows and cultural programming, there's something for everyone. Happy watching!