Israel extends order allowing closure of foreign broadcasters

A bill passed by parliament expands temporary powers introduced during the Gaza war to shutter outlets seen as a security threat.

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The legislation, passed by 22 votes to 10, expands temporary powers introduced during the Gaza war to shutter outlets seen as a threat to national security.

It allows the government for the next two years to cease operations of a foreign outlet even in peace time and without the need for a court order.

Originally dubbed the "Al Jazeera Law", the powers were used to shut down the Qatari-owned channel's offices and block its broadcasts in May 2024.

Israel accused Al Jazeera - which has been a strong critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza - of anti-Israel bias and of supporting Hamas in its coverage.