In a dramatic move, Israel has ordered the local offices of Qatar’s Al-Jazeera satellite news network to close, escalating tensions between the broadcaster and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

This order, which includes confiscating equipment and blocking broadcasts, marks the first time Israel has shuttered a foreign news outlet operating in the country.

Despite the closure, Al-Jazeera’s website and online streaming links remain operational, allowing continuous coverage of the conflict.

Accusations of inciting against Israel have prompted this action, according to Netanyahu, who stated, “It’s time to remove the Hamas mouthpiece from our country.”

Al-Jazeera has vowed to pursue legal channels, denouncing Israel’s suppression of free press and targeting of journalists.

The ban comes amid ongoing mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the US to halt the Gaza conflict, raising concerns about diplomatic implications.

International organizations and rights groups have criticized Israel’s decision, citing it as a violation of press freedom and a dangerous precedent.

The rocky relationship between Israel and Al-Jazeera has further worsened during the current conflict, with casualties among journalists and accusations of bias.

Despite challenges, Al-Jazeera remains committed to reporting from Gaza and exposing the realities of the war, drawing both criticism and admiration.