Knesset Legal Advisers Oppose Permanent Version of "Al Jazeera Law" Amid Press Freedom Concerns

The Knesset Legal Advisory Committee voiced firm opposition on Sunday to efforts to make the so-called "Al Jazeera Law" a permanent statute, warning that the proposed amendments raise serious constitutional concerns and undermine judicial oversight. Despite the warnings, the Knesset’s National Security Committee is expected to vote Monday on preparing the law for a first reading.

The controversial bill, initiated by Likud MK Ariel Kellner, seeks to authorize the permanent closure of foreign media outlets operating in Israel, even outside periods of war or national emergency. Critics argue the bill represents a severe blow to democratic norms, press freedom, and judicial checks and balances.

Legal Adviser Warns of Unconstitutionality and Lack of Oversight

During Sunday’s heated committee debate, Knesset Legal Adviser Miri Frankel-Shor issued a rare and direct warning, stating the bill’s proposed changes, particularly those that would abolish judicial review, may render it unconstitutional.

“It is not every day that the legal counsel for the Knesset warns of the unconstitutionality of a bill,” Frankel-Shor told MK Kellner during the session. “You brought a different version every time. I did not always understand what was happening and what version we were discussing.”

Under the existing temporary version of the law, enacted in April 2024, the Minister of Communications—with the Prime Minister’s approval—can order the closure of foreign media outlets if their content is deemed a security threat. However, such decisions must be reviewed by a judge and are limited to 90-day periods during active security emergencies.

Kellner’s bill would remove these safeguards, allowing long-term closures without judicial intervention. Frankel-Shor emphasized that judicial review is "a critical link" in ensuring due process and that bypassing it could result in the law being struck down.

Expanded Powers Over Online Platforms Raise Enforcement Questions

The proposed legislation also includes new provisions allowing the Minister of Communications to order social media platforms and streaming services such as YouTube to halt foreign broadcasts. Frankel-Shor questioned the feasibility and legality of this move, saying, “It is not clear whether the order is voluntary or coercive—and either way, it will be difficult to enforce.”

Another controversial addition allows the Minister of Communications, in coordination with the Minister of Defense, to take measures to block satellite transmissions of foreign networks across Israel and the West Bank. However, no cost analysis or impact assessment was presented.

Last-Minute Amendments Spark Tensions

A new draft of the bill introduced by MK Amit Halevi caused further friction, as some professional experts said they had not been given time to review it. Frankel-Shor declared that the committee could not legally vote on the new version without proper examination, prompting criticism from coalition MKs.

“You are supposed to defend me,” Halevi told the legal adviser, adding that the current temporary law was “Swiss cheese” and ineffective. He claimed that in cities like Ramla, Al Jazeera content was still being broadcast on large screens due to legal loopholes, and that “85% of Israeli Arabs watch this inflammatory material via satellite.”

Opposition from Journalists and the Justice Ministry

Attorney Eyal Zandberg, head of public law at the Ministry of Justice, defended the current temporary law, saying it functions effectively and reflects the security establishment’s needs.

Journalist union representative Anat Saragosti strongly opposed the bill, warning that it would set a dangerous precedent and could embolden acts of intimidation against journalists.

“This law activates a broad censorship mechanism for a problem we don’t even know exists,” Saragosti said. “Israel’s legal framework already contains tools to counter incitement to terrorism. This is unnecessary and dangerous.”

She also linked the law to an uptick in public hostility toward journalists, particularly during sensitive military campaigns. “Stopping broadcasts and filming is intimidation, and it’s already happening because of this atmosphere,” she said.

Background: The Temporary Al Jazeera Law

The current law was passed in April 2024 and used the following month to shut down Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel, citing national security concerns. The temporary law allows closures for up to 90 days and is only active during a declared state of emergency or significant military operations.

The government has sought to extend and expand the law as part of a broader campaign against foreign media outlets it claims spread hostile propaganda during wartime.

What’s Next

Despite strong legal opposition, the National Security Committee is expected to vote Monday on advancing the bill to its first Knesset reading. If passed, the law would move toward becoming permanent legislation—raising significant legal and ethical challenges.

Frankel-Shor concluded with a warning to lawmakers:

“These proposals carry serious implications. They cannot be rushed through without due diligence.”