Should the government’s decision pass, Army Radio, which has been broadcasting for 75 years, would cease its operations at the very latest by March 1.
The government’s decision to close Army Radio is “part of a broader effort to undermine public broadcasting in Israel and to restrict freedom of expression,” said Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara on Monday morning.
She added that the decision “is not supported by the required factual and professional basis, raises concerns that it is tainted by improper considerations, and its advancement is contrary to the law.”
Her comments and the accompanying advisory opinion came ahead of a scheduled government meeting on Monday, during which the proposal was presented by Defense Minister Israel Katz, and was unanimously approved.
Army Radio – which has been broadcasting for 75 years – would cease its operations at the very latest by March 1.
An illustrative image of a reporter for Army Radio (Galei Tzahal) taken in 2019. (credit: MOSHE SHAI/FLASH90)
Movement for Quality Government in Israel vows to fight Army Radio’s closure
The NGO Movement for Quality Government in Israel petitioned the High Court of Justice on Monday afternoon just as news of the decision’s passing broke.
MQG argued that the decision was based on improper considerations and a flawed factual foundation, and would cause serious harm to freedom of expression and press freedom.
It further contended that shutting down the station requires primary legislation – rather than a cabinet decision, and warned the move is part of a broader effort to undermine democratic institutions and independent media in Israel.