Israeli communications minister Shlomo Karhi announced on Sunday that he would bring a proposal before Israel’s cabinet to halt Al Jazeera’s operations within the country. According to a
tweet reposted by Karhi, the drafted regulations aim to prevent harm and block media outlets that disseminate propaganda in times of war. The feasibility and legality of the proposal are currently under examination to assess whether it falls within Israel’s emergency law powers.
The draft regulations focus on preventing news organizations from intentionally undermining national security or acting as conduits for enemy propaganda. If found in violation of these regulations, the minister would have authority to block content dissemination by the organization and seize their broadcasting equipment.
In an interview with Israel’s Army Radio, Karhi singled out Al Jazeera, though the draft regulations do not mention the network explicitly. He accused Al Jazeera of endangering troop security by filming their locations and disseminating statements from Hamas leadership. He expressed that the proposal would be put before the cabinet but no official comments have been released by Al Jazeera regarding this development.
The conflict in Gaza has now lasted for ten days, with a reported death toll exceeding 2,700 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis. Official figures vary, with reports from the Palestinian Health Ministry, Palestine Red Crescent Society and Israeli Medical Services indicating differing numbers.