Netanyahu's government takes aim at Israel's free press in election year

What started as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu avoiding mainstream media interviews has escalated into a broader challenge to press freedom in the country. Netanyahu has not granted interviews to Israels three leading broadcasters for over four years, accusing them of brainwashing, aiding Israels enemies, and targeting journalists critical of his administration. This long-standing tension is now evolving into a more assertive government action.

On Monday, Netanyahus coalition plans to create a parliamentary committee aimed at advancing legislation that would replace independent media regulators with politically appointed officials. This would grant the government sweeping powers to fine and sanction news organizations, a move critics warn could permanently alter Israels media landscape. The bill, introduced in May by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, a Netanyahu ally, passed its first reading last month. The government argues that the reform will modernize media regulations, boost competition, and remove outdated barriers for the digital era. However, Israeli networks caution that the changes would increase political influence and compromise editorial independence.

In a rare move, rival networks formed a joint emergency forum in August 2023 to oppose the proposed legislation, calling it a hostile takeover of the media market. A forum representative told CNN that the effort represents an attempted power grab on the eve of an election with the goal of silencing criticism before Israelis vote.

The bill is part of a larger pattern of press restrictions in Israel. Earlier this year, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranked Israel 112th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index, citing intensifying pressure on journalists and a rise in disinformation campaigns. Proposed legislation initially targeting Al-Jazeera is now expanding to allow the government to close certain foreign outlets without judicial oversight in the name of national security. Another bill would privatize the public broadcaster Kan 11, while Defense Minister Israel Katz plans to shut down Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) next year. These moves coincide with Israel restricting foreign journalists from entering Gaza independently for over two years, which RSF described as an unprecedented violation of press freedom and the publics right to independent reporting.

The media regulation bill has drawn criticism from multiple authorities, including the national regulatory agency, Finance and Justice ministries, Knesset legal advisers, and the attorney general. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara warned that the proposal creates real concern about political and commercial influence over media organizations. Despite legal objections, Minister Karhi continues to push the legislation, asserting it will create true freedom of expression rather than the voice of disgruntled people with microphones.

While attempting to curb critical reporting, the government has simultaneously provided advantages to pro-Netanyahu Channel 14, granting regulatory reliefs and reduced distribution fees compared to other commercial channels.

Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler of the Israel Democracy Institute stated, In the past two years, the government has conducted a coordinated political, regulatory, and rhetorical campaign to weaken the media. Attacks on journalists include public harassment and intimidation, often with tacit support from coalition members and far-right politicians like National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Channel 12 correspondent Guy Peleg has faced protests at his home, threatening messages, and billboards demanding imprisonment. His reporting on alleged abuse at a detention facility led to resignations in the military legal system, highlighting the risks faced by critical journalists.

Right-wing activists, some supported by coalition officials, continue campaigns against journalists. Peleg described the harassment as part of a unified system combining legislation, military control, and online intimidation to pressure the media.

Netanyahus media strategy is closely tied to his political survival. Prosecutors allege he has exchanged regulatory benefits for favorable coverage. He is currently seeking a pardon in his ongoing corruption trial while denying wrongdoing. Critics warn that the new legal framework would allow ministers to reward compliant media and punish critical outlets.

The timing of these measures is notable, with elections scheduled for October 2026. Analysts warn that independent journalism is vital for democratic accountability, and the current pressures leave Israels public sphere more vulnerable than ever to political influence and erosion of oversight.

As Israel enters an election year, its news organizations face unprecedented political pressure, regulatory threats, and physical intimidation, Altshuler said. The public sphere is at greater risk of capture and the weakening of democratic oversight.

Author: Sophia Brooks