Israel Threatens to Shut Down Al Jazeera: A Historical Overview

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long aimed to shut down Al Jazeera in Israel, with the Israeli military previously targeting and killing its journalists in Palestine.

On Monday, Israel’s parliament enacted a law allowing the temporary shutdown of foreign media outlets in Israel, specifically targeting Al Jazeera. This law permits the closure of foreign media offices for up to 45 days, with the possibility of extension, effective until the end of July or the conclusion of significant military operations in Gaza. Additionally, the law allows for the seizure of equipment if deemed a threat to state security.

“Al Jazeera has harmed Israel’s security, participated in the October 7 massacre, and incited against Israeli soldiers,” Netanyahu posted on social media. “I will act immediately under the new law to cease the channel’s activities.”

Previous Threats to Al Jazeera

Netanyahu’s current threats are part of a series of actions against Al Jazeera. On July 26, 2017, he threatened to shut down Al Jazeera’s Jerusalem office, accusing the outlet of inciting violence during a period of tension at the al-Aqsa Mosque.

Earlier, on March 12, 2008, the Israeli government press office sanctioned Al Jazeera staff following coverage of celebrations after the release of Samir Kuntar from Israeli prison. Kuntar, a Lebanese Druze member of the Palestinian Liberation Front and Hezbollah, had been convicted of multiple crimes.

Attacks on Al Jazeera’s Offices Outside Israel

On May 15, 2021, an Israeli missile destroyed the al-Jalaa Tower in Gaza City, which housed Al Jazeera and The Associated Press offices, along with several residences.

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