Israel extends Al Jazeera ban by 45 days citing security concerns

Israel's telecom regulator has extended a ban on Al Jazeera's operations within the country for an additional 45 days, following cabinet approval that deemed the broadcaster a security threat.

This decision follows an earlier 35-day ban, upheld by a Tel Aviv court, which concluded on Saturday.

The Supreme Court of Israel, in response to Al Jazeera's petition challenging the closure, described the ban as "precedent-setting." The court has given the government until August 8 to justify why the "Law Preventing a Foreign Broadcaster from Harming National Security" should not be invalidated.

Al Jazeera has argued that it neither incites violence nor terrorism and claimed the ban is disproportionate. The network, which has been critical of Israel's military actions in Gaza, has yet to comment publicly on the latest extension.

The Communications Ministry announced that Al Jazeera's broadcasts via cable and satellite, along with access to its websites, will remain blocked. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi justified the ban, stating, "We will not allow the terrorist channel Al Jazeera to broadcast from Israel and endanger our fighters." He indicated that the ban might be extended further due to the perceived security risks.

Judge Shai Yaniv cited unspecified evidence of a long-standing relationship between Al Jazeera and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, accusing the network of promoting militant goals. This led to Israeli authorities raiding a Jerusalem hotel room used by Al Jazeera as an office on May 5, effectively shutting down its operations during the Gaza conflict.

The extension of the ban underscores ongoing tensions and the complex relationship between Israel and foreign media, particularly those critical of its policies. The outcome of the Supreme Court's review will be crucial in determining the future of Al Jazeera's presence in Israel.