Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that the government will ban Al Jazeera, referring to the Qatari-based pan-Arabic channel as the mouthpiece of Hamas. This decision comes as Israel’s conflict in Gaza approaches its sixth month.
The Knesset recently passed a temporary law granting the prime minister the authority to ban a foreign channel and close its offices if it poses a threat to national security. Netanyahu, who is currently recovering from hernia surgery, expressed his intention to utilize this law against Al Jazeera.
The prime minister accused the channel of compromising Israel’s security, actively participating in the October 7 massacre, and inciting violence against Israeli soldiers. Netanyahu emphasized the need to remove what he referred to as the “bullhorn of Hamas” from the country. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi stated that the channel will be blocked in the near future, asserting that there will be no room for Hamas propaganda.
The legislation will remain in effect until July 31, 2024, or until significant military actions cease in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. In response, Al Jazeera released a statement holding the Israeli prime minister accountable for the safety of its staff and network premises worldwide. The channel vowed to continue its professional coverage despite the false accusations and threatened legal action.
Certain Israeli lawmakers have expressed their opposition to the legislation. MK Mansour Abbas contended that Al Jazeera should have the right to broadcast as it provides a platform for voices from Israel, including military representatives.
The United States has also raised concerns regarding the new law. White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the importance of press freedom, especially for those reporting on the conflict in Gaza, stating that the work of journalists is significant.
Tragic incidents involving Al Jazeera journalists have occurred, such as the death of correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh during an Israeli raid in the West Bank and the killing of cameraman Samer Abudaqa in Gaza during an IDF operation. Al Jazeera has attributed both deaths to the Israeli military.
Following a surprise attack by Palestinian militants on October 7, resulting in the deaths of around 1,100 individuals and the taking of over 200 hostages, Israel declared war on Hamas. Subsequently, a weeklong ceasefire in November led to the release of numerous captives as part of prisoner swaps.
According to the Hamas-run authorities in Gaza, more than 30,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since the events of October 7.
