Created on :Apr 01, 2024

Prime minister Netanyahu Revives Moves To Shut Al Jazeera TV In Israel

In recent developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to shut down the Qatari satellite television station Al Jazeera within Israel. This move comes amidst long-standing complaints from Israeli officials about the station's coverage, which they have accused of agitating against Israel among Arab viewers.

The Likud party spokesperson stated that Netanyahu intends to convene parliament to ratify the necessary law and subsequently take immediate action to shut down Al Jazeera in accordance with the established legal procedure. Israel has previously refrained from taking such action, partly due to Qatar's financial support for Palestinian construction projects in the Gaza Strip, which is seen as a measure to mitigate conflict in the region.

The decision to target Al Jazeera follows escalating tensions, particularly since the Gaza war in October, during which Doha mediated ceasefire talks. However, negotiations for a second proposed truce have shown little progress, prompting Netanyahu to publicly call for increased pressure on Hamas, which has political ties to Qatar.

Israeli perceptions of Al Jazeera have hardened over time, with the communications minister accusing the station of pro-Hamas incitement and endangering Israeli troops. While Al Jazeera and the Qatari government have not responded to these allegations, Israel has previously targeted another media outlet, Al Mayadeen, for shutdown under emergency regulations.

The impending closure of Al Jazeera reflects the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East and Israel's efforts to assert control over media narratives within its borders.