Veteran military commentator Roni Daniel died on Monday, following a fatal cardiac episode at home, Channel 12 News, of which he was a staple, confirmed. He was 73.
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Daniel, an iconic television figure, had been with the channel for 28 years – since its inception in 1993.
Daniel began his journalistic career in 1971 with Israel Radio, as a transportation and agriculture reporter, but quickly made the move to covering defense and security issues.
In the early 1980s, he served as head of the radio station's news division and in 1993, now a lieutenant colonel in the reserves, he joined then-Channel 2's News Company as its military correspondent and later commentator.
"Channel 12 News mourns the death of our colleague and friend Roni Daniel, who passed away at the age of 73. Roni was the New Company's military commentator since it was formed in 1993. May his memory be blessed," the channel said in a statement.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett eulogized Daniel, saying, "Roni Daniel, a man who combined journalism with patriotism and Zionism, passed away today [Monday]. Roni wasn't just a military commentator. His was the voice of the city and the kibbutz. He criticized when it was needed and gave credit when it was warranted. He will be missed by all of us on the screen and in our hearts. My condolences to the family. May his memory be blessed."
President Isaac Herzog said, "We have lost a unique voice, one of integrity and honesty; the voice of a professional journalist who loved his fellow man and his country. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May he memory be blessed."
A statement by the Defense Ministry said the defense establishment "mourns the passing of Roni Daniel, a senior military commentator. We will miss you very much, Roni. May your memory be blessed."
Defense Minister Benny Gantz said,"About two weeks ago I met Roni Daniel. He didn't start a conversation with state security, rather he told me that he was worried about the country. His status was built for years on the basis of honesty, humanity and professionalism."
Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, a former journalist, tweeted, "Roni, my friend, we worked together for a long time. You were always the most professional, the most hardworking and, most importantly, a human being and a friend. A man who's all heart, and now your heart has stopped. I miss you already."
Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel described Daniel as "first and foremost an Israeli patriot; a man who loved his country and his people. The communications world has lost a leading voice. May his memory be blessed."
Public broadcaster Kan issued a statement of condolences saying, "The Israeli Public Broadcaster Kan mourns the death of veteran journalist Roni Daniel, who started his career at Israel Radio. We offer our condolences to our colleagues at Channel 12 and the family."
Roni Daniel is survived by his wife and two children.
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