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Israel: Temporary Suspension of Radio Station Closure

Published December 29, 2025, 13:12
Israel: Temporary Suspension of Radio Station Closure

The Israeli Supreme Court has issued a temporary order suspending the government's decision to close the army radio station, Galei Tzahal. This decision aims to prevent the taking of irreversible measures before the court examines the legality of the closure. The Attorney General supports the suspension, expressing concerns about potential political interference in public broadcasting and freedom of the press. Galei Tzahal, one of Israel's oldest and most popular radio stations, was founded in 1950 and is known for its news programs. The government decided to close it until March 1, 2026, citing the broadcast of "political and divisive content" that does not align with the values of the army. The Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, argued that soldiers and citizens protested the station's content, which they felt did not represent them and negatively impacted morale and the war effort. However, the Attorney General had warned that the decision raised concerns about freedom of expression and the press. The decision to close Galei Tzahal has sparked reactions from the opposition, which denounces it as part of a broader effort by the government to suppress freedom of expression ahead of the parliamentary elections expected in the fall of 2026.