Israeli forces stormed the offices of Al-Jazeera in the West Bank, ordering the bureau to shut down for 45 days amidst coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict. This marks the first time a foreign news outlet has been closed in Israel. Al-Jazeera continues broadcasting from neighboring Jordan despite the shutdown.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the Israeli raid, calling it an attack on press freedom. Communication Minister Shlomo Karhi labeled Al-Jazeera as the “mouthpiece of Hamas and Hezbollah,” sparking concerns from organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists.
The network, funded by Qatar, has faced criticism by Israeli officials for allegedly inciting violence. While Israel has taken action against individual reporters in the past, it allows a diverse media landscape. Al-Jazeera has previously been targeted by other Middle Eastern governments.
The closure comes as Al-Jazeera reports on casualties in Gaza and publishes statements from militant groups, contributing to tensions in the region. The future of the network’s operation in Gaza remains uncertain as the conflict continues.
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