Knesset passes into law controversial overhaul of Israel's broadcasting sector

Israel's Knesset has passed a contentious bill reforming the country's broadcasting sector, a move that grants the government substantial control over media. The legislation, championed by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, secured final approval in its third reading with a vote of 53 in favor and 48 against.

The bill's passage is a significant achievement for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition. However, it has drawn severe legal warnings and concerns over its expedited process. Critics argue the reforms could undermine press freedom, potentially benefiting outlets like Channel 14 while negatively impacting channels such as Channel 12, which have been accused of being anti-government.

At the core of the reform is the establishment of a single regulatory authority, replacing existing bodies. This new authority's nine-member committee would have representatives selected by the communications minister, leading to accusations that appointments would be political. Critics, including the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI), contend that the bill eliminates safeguards for journalistic content quality and grants overly broad enforcement powers to the regulator.

Additionally, a consumer benefit intended to provide free mobile viewing of major sports broadcasts, particularly for soldiers, was removed from the bill at the last minute. This removal occurred after ultra-Orthodox parties indicated they would not support the legislation otherwise. The bill's passage proceeded without approval from the Attorney-General's Office.