Overview

Maurice David Landau OBE (22 June 1947 – 27 January 2015) was a British–Israeli journalist and newspaper editor best known for his long association with Haaretz, Israel's leading liberal broadsheet. Born in England, Landau built a reputation as an influential voice in Israeli journalism, guiding the English-language presence of Haaretz and later representing Israeli affairs for international readers.

Career and roles

Landau played several key roles in print journalism. He founded and served as editor-in-chief of Haaretz's English-language edition from its launch in 1997 until 2004. He then became editor-in-chief of the entire Haaretz newspaper from 2004 to 2008. After leaving the paper's top editorial post, Landau worked as the Israel correspondent for The Economist, reporting on political and social developments for a global audience.

Editorial approach and influence

Throughout his career Landau was associated with an intellectually engaged, critical style of journalism. Haaretz, long known for thoughtful commentary and in-depth analysis, expanded its international reach under his leadership. He emphasized rigorous reporting and commentary intended to inform both Israeli and foreign readers about the complexities of Israeli politics, society, and the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

Background and recognition

Born in England, Landau maintained ties to both British and Israeli public life. He is often described as a British journalist who became a prominent Israeli editor after relocating and pursuing a career in Israel. His name is sometimes listed with the postnominal letters OBE; additional details on that honor appear in contemporary notices and biographies (honors record). His birthplace is noted as England in accounts of his life.

Legacy and notable facts

  • Founder and first editor-in-chief of Haaretz's English edition (1997–2004).
  • Editor-in-chief of Haaretz (2004–2008), shaping editorial direction during a turbulent period in regional politics.
  • Later served as Israel correspondent for The Economist, bringing Israeli affairs to an international readership.

Landau's death in January 2015 marked the end of a prominent chapter in Israeli journalism. He is remembered for strengthening English-language journalism about Israel and for his stewardship of one of the country's most respected newspapers. For further reading and contemporary tributes, consult press notices and retrospectives that assess his impact on both national and international media coverage.