Israeli authorities raided a hotel room in Jerusalem used as an office by Al Jazeera after the government ordered the shutdown of the Qatari-owned TV station’s local operations. The raid occurred on Sunday, with plainclothes officers seen dismantling camera equipment, according to sources from both the Israeli government and Al Jazeera.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet ordered the closure of Al Jazeera for the duration of the conflict in Gaza, citing threats to national security. Al Jazeera condemned the move as a “criminal action,” denying allegations of endangering Israeli security and vowing to take legal action.
Al Jazeera has been critical of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, where it has extensively reported during the conflict.
Netanyahu announced the closure on social media following a unanimous cabinet decision. Israel’s communications minister promptly issued orders to shut down Al Jazeera’s offices, confiscate equipment, and block its broadcasts and websites.
Satellite and cable providers in Israel suspended Al Jazeera broadcasts in compliance with the government’s decision.
The Qatari government, which oversees Al Jazeera, did not immediately comment on the closure.
Al Jazeera previously accused Israel of targeting and killing its journalists during the conflict in Gaza. Israel denied these allegations, stating it does not target journalists.
Established in 1996, Al Jazeera is viewed by Qatar as a means to enhance its global influence.
The UN Human Rights Office criticized the closure, emphasizing the importance of a free and independent media for transparency and accountability.
Israel’s parliament passed a law last month allowing the temporary closure of foreign broadcasters deemed national security threats. This law enables Netanyahu and his security cabinet to close Al Jazeera’s offices in Israel for 45 days, with the possibility of extensions.
Qatar, home to several Hamas leaders, is attempting to broker a ceasefire and hostage release to end the conflict in Gaza.
