What's happened
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to close Army Radio by March 2026, citing concerns over its political content and its deviation from the military's nonpartisan mission. The move has sparked opposition from journalists and critics who see it as an attack on press freedom.
What's behind the headline?
The decision to close Army Radio reflects Israel's ongoing struggle over media independence and military influence. Katz's justification hinges on the station's content allegedly harming morale and national security, but critics argue it undermines press freedom and transparency. The move aligns with Netanyahu's broader strategy to consolidate media influence, including proposed laws to restrict foreign and independent outlets. This will likely lead to legal challenges and protests from journalists and opposition figures. The closure risks eroding a vital platform for military and public discourse, potentially setting a precedent for further government interference in independent media. The station's unique role as both a military and public broadcaster makes its shutdown a significant shift in Israel's media ecosystem, with long-term implications for press independence and civil liberties.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports that Katz's move is part of a broader effort to reassert control over Israel's media environment, emphasizing national security concerns and the station's drift from its original mission. The article highlights opposition from journalists and legal bodies, who argue that only legislation can legally close Army Radio, and criticizes the move as an attack on press freedom. The New Arab adds that opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the decision as driven by 'an anxious government that fears criticism,' and notes the station's popularity among the public. Reuters echoes these points, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the announcement and the station's significance. All sources agree that the move is controversial, with strong opposition from media unions and civil society, framing it as part of a wider trend of government attempts to control or weaken independent media outlets in Israel.
How we got here
Army Radio, established in 1950, has been a key part of Israel's media landscape, blending military-focused programming with broader public broadcasts. Successive governments have debated its control, with recent efforts to privatize or shut it down. The current move follows criticism of the station's content and perceived bias against state institutions, amid broader government efforts to tighten media control.
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Israel Katz is an Israeli politician who currently serves as a member of the Knesset for Likud and Minister of Finance. He has previously held the posts of Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Transportation, Minister of Intelligence and Minister of Forei
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Yair Lapid is an Israeli politician and former journalist serving as chairman of the Yesh Atid party and opposition leader in the Knesset. He served as Minister of Finance from 2013 to 2014. Before entering politics in 2012, Lapid was an author, TV presen