The decision by the Israeli government to shutter Al Jazeera’s operations within its borders has ignited condemnation from the media network, labeling the move a “criminal act” and a grave infringement on fundamental human rights and the freedom of information.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, Al Jazeera Media Network expressed its vehement opposition to what it perceives as a blatant suppression of the press by Israeli authorities. The network asserted its unyielding right to deliver news and information to its global audience, despite the Israeli government’s attempts to stifle its coverage.
The closure of Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel is viewed as a deliberate effort by the Israeli government to obscure its actions in the Gaza Strip, a move that Al Jazeera contends violates both international law and humanitarian principles. The network decried Israel’s history of targeting and harming journalists, citing the alarming number of Palestinian journalists who have lost their lives during the conflict in Gaza.
Al Jazeera vehemently refuted allegations made by Israeli authorities regarding breaches of professional media standards, emphasizing its steadfast commitment to the ethical principles outlined in its Code of Ethics.
The decision to close Al Jazeera’s operations follows a unanimous vote by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet, supported by recent legislation allowing for the temporary closure of foreign media outlets deemed a threat to national security during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Netanyahu announced the closure via social media platform X, underscoring the government’s determination to shut down what it perceives as an “incitement channel.”
Israel’s Communications Minister, Shlomo Karhi, confirmed the orders for closure, detailing the confiscation of Al Jazeera’s broadcasting equipment, including essential tools for content delivery and production. Subsequently, police raids on Al Jazeera’s premises in occupied East Jerusalem occurred, leading to the removal of Al Jazeera from satellite and cable providers’ broadcasts.
In place of Al Jazeera’s programming, viewers were met with alternative messages on several satellite providers, reflecting the swift and comprehensive measures taken by Israeli authorities to enforce the closure.
Al Jazeera’s closure in Israel represents a concerning escalation in the ongoing tensions between media freedom and state security, prompting widespread criticism and concern from international observers.
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