Israel’s telecoms regulator extended a ban on Al Jazeera’s operations in the country for another 45 days, citing national security threats. This extension, announced on Sunday, follows a cabinet agreement that the broadcaster’s activities posed significant risks.
Last week, a Tel Aviv court upheld an initial 35-day ban on Al Jazeera, which was imposed by the Israeli government on national security grounds and ended on Saturday. The court’s decision has now been followed by an additional extension from the regulator.
In a parallel legal development, Israel’s Supreme Court addressed a petition filed by Al Jazeera challenging the closure. The Supreme Court termed the government’s action as “precedent-setting” and mandated the government to justify the ban by August 8. Specifically, the court demanded explanations for why the “Law Preventing a Foreign Broadcaster from Harming National Security” should not be declared invalid.
Al Jazeera, in its court submissions, argued that its coverage did not incite violence or terrorism and labeled the ban as disproportionate. The Qatar-based network, known for its critical reporting on Israel’s military activities in Gaza, announced plans to appeal the latest extension.
During the extended ban period, Al Jazeera’s broadcasts on cable and satellite services, along with access to its websites, will remain blocked, according to a statement from Israel’s Communications Ministry.
This ongoing legal and regulatory battle marks a significant moment in the relationship between Israel and international media, with potential implications for press freedom and national security considerations in the region.
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