After backlash, Karhi drops bid to grant Netanyahu additional power over media during elections

An Israeli opposition lawmaker has withdrawn a controversial amendment that would have significantly increased Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's control over media outlets during election periods. The proposed change, part of a broader broadcast overhaul bill, sparked immediate backlash from opposition parties.

Critics decried the amendment's timing and substance, with one opposition MK describing it as having "suddenly appeared in the middle of the night." They argued that the last-minute addition aimed to grant Netanyahu undue influence over election coverage, raising concerns about democratic fairness.

Despite the withdrawal, the political maneuvering highlighted tensions surrounding media regulation and political power in Israel. The communications minister reportedly mocked the critics, referring to them as "clowns," underscoring the sharp divisions and heated rhetoric surrounding the legislative push.