Israel's parliament has extended an order allowing the government to shut down foreign broadcasters operating in the country. The legislation, passed by 22 votes to 10, expands temporary powers introduced during the Gaza war to shutter outlets seen as a threat to national security. It allows the government for the next two years to cease operations of a foreign outlet even in peace time and without the need for a court order. Originally dubbed the 'Al Jazeera Law', the powers were used to shut down the Qatari-owned channel’s offices and block its broadcasts in May 2024.
Israel accused Al Jazeera - which has been a strong critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza - of anti-Israel bias and of supporting Hamas in its coverage. Al Jazeera denied the accusations and condemned Israel's actions, calling it a 'criminal act' and an attack on press freedom.
The Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) has previously stated that the temporary order violates principles of freedom of expression and the right to information. This latest legislative move was made soon after the Israeli cabinet approved a plan to shut down Army Radio, which has its own controversies regarding content.
Critics warn that these actions are part of a broader pattern of diminishing democracy in Israel, as the decision to shut down public media organizations continues to raise flags over press freedom in the region.
Israel accused Al Jazeera - which has been a strong critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza - of anti-Israel bias and of supporting Hamas in its coverage. Al Jazeera denied the accusations and condemned Israel's actions, calling it a 'criminal act' and an attack on press freedom.
The Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) has previously stated that the temporary order violates principles of freedom of expression and the right to information. This latest legislative move was made soon after the Israeli cabinet approved a plan to shut down Army Radio, which has its own controversies regarding content.
Critics warn that these actions are part of a broader pattern of diminishing democracy in Israel, as the decision to shut down public media organizations continues to raise flags over press freedom in the region.
