Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to shut down news network Al Jazeera following the passage of a new law allowing the government to ban foreign networks deemed as threats to national security. The law, passed on April 1, grants the prime minister and communications minister the authority to order the temporary closure of foreign networks operating in Israel, as it was disclosed by CNN.
Netanyahu stated his intention to act immediately in accordance with the new law to halt Al Jazeera's activity in the country, citing concerns over its coverage and alleged ties to Hamas. Al Jazeera, known for its on-the-ground reporting of conflicts, including Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza, condemned the decision, vowing to continue its professional coverage.
The move comes amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with Netanyahu's government facing public pressure over its handling of operations in Gaza. Netanyahu has long accused Al Jazeera of anti-Israel bias and alleged involvement in incitement against Israeli Defense Forces.
Rights groups, including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Human Rights Watch, have criticized the law, expressing concerns about its implications for press freedom and international media coverage. CPJ's program director Carlos Martínez de la Serna warned that the law could contribute to self-censorship and hostility toward the press, while Human Rights Watch's Israel and Palestine Director Omar Shakir described it as an alarming escalation.
The White House also voiced concerns over reports of Al Jazeera's potential closure, emphasizing the importance of journalists' work, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with ongoing bombardment and ground operations in Gaza. The exact death toll remains disputed, with Israel reporting more than 1,200 casualties and Hamas-ruled Gaza reporting over 32,000 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health in the strip.
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