The Israeli government is considering shutting down the local office of Al Jazeera, a Qatari broadcaster, on accusations of “propaganda” during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Emergency regulations have been passed, allowing for the closure of broadcasters deemed a security risk.
This move, led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Communication Minister Shlomo Karai, responds to allegations that Al Jazeera spreads propaganda in Arabic and English in support of Hamas and other groups. Israeli officials also accuse the network of sharing sensitive information with adversaries.
Authorities have backed the measure, which has been coordinated with the Government’s Legal Adviser. Minister Karai emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that new regulations will allow for the closing of channels, the seizure of equipment, and the revocation of journalist accreditation if they jeopardize national security during a war.
This media suppression is set to be implemented rapidly, pending approval from Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant and the Statutory Security Cabinet, and demonstrates what the Israeli government purportedly maintains its commitment to addressing what it considers to be security threats during the ongoing conflict.