Israel shuts down Al Jazeera's operations in Jerusalem over Gaza reports: summary
What we know
- Israel's communications minister has taken decisive action to shut down Al Jazeera's operations within the country. The move comes amidst tensions, with at least one lawmaker voicing concerns about potential legal challenges to the closure.
- According to a government statement, signed orders mandate immediate action to close Al Jazeera's offices, confiscate broadcast equipment, terminate its cable and satellite transmissions, and block its websites.
- Israeli authorities reportedly raided a hotel room in Jerusalem utilized by Al Jazeera as its office following the government's decision. Video footage circulated online depicts plainclothes officers dismantling camera equipment in what was identified as East Jerusalem by an Al Jazeera source, Reuters reports.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet justified the shutdown by citing national security concerns, vowing to keep the network closed for the duration of the conflict in Gaza.
- The closure has sparked debate, with supporters arguing it is necessary for security reasons, while others express apprehension about potential legal implications.
What they said
A statement from the Qatari-owned TV station read, "Al Jazeera Media Network strongly condemns and denounces this criminal act that violates human rights and the basic right to access information. Al Jazeera affirms its right to continue to provide news and information to its global audiences." The statement posted on X added, "We regret the cabinet's decision to close Al Jazeera in Israel. Free & independent media is essential to ensuring transparency & accountability. Now, even more so given tight restrictions on reporting from Gaza. Freedom of expression is a key human right. We urge govt to overturn the ban."
