AI Condemns Israel Over Al-Jazeera Clampdown

Human rights groups have denounced attempts by the Israeli government to shutter Al-Jazeera’s operations in Occupied Palestine. Israeli officials have accused the Qatari-owned broadcaster of “supporting terrorism.” Human rights watchdog Amnesty International has criticized the Israeli government for attempting to shut down the Al-Jazeera bureau in Beit-ul-Muqaddas, DW reported. “This is a brazen attack on media freedom in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian territories. The move sends a chilling message that the Israeli authorities will not tolerate critical coverage,” Amnesty said in a statement on Monday. On Sunday, Israeli Communications Minister Ayoob Kara announced the government’s intention to shutter the Qatari-owned broadcaster’s operations in Israel. Kara said he requested that the government press office, responsible for press accreditation in Israel, revoke Al-Jazeera’s operating license and withdraw credentials from journalists working for the channel. However, the move was met with condemnation. “All journalists should be free to carry out their work without facing harassment or intimidation. Instead of initiating a repressive clampdown on freedom of expression, the Israeli authorities must halt any attempt to silence critical media,” said Amnesty International.