By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

The planned shutdown of Israel’s military radio station faces legal challenges amid warnings that bypassing parliament undermines democratic norms.

The Israeli government approved on Monday the closure of the Israeli Army Radio (Galei Tsahal), the country’s long-running military radio station, prompting warnings from legal experts and opposition figures over threats to press freedom.

According to the office of Israeli Security Minister Israel Katz, the station is expected to cease operations before March 1, 2026.

Established in 1950, Galei Tsahal has been a major fixture in Israel’s media landscape, particularly for its widely followed news coverage. It remains one of the most listened-to radio stations in the country, with an audience share estimated at 17.7 percent.

Attorney General Raises Press Freedom Concerns

The decision drew sharp criticism from Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who is currently facing dismissal proceedings initiated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a statement, her office warned that the closure “raises concerns of political interference in public broadcasting” and could constitute an infringement on freedom of expression and press freedom.

A 34-page legal opinion issued by the attorney general’s office argued that shutting down the station would require formal approval by the Knesset and that the current decision “does not meet the necessary legal requirements.”

Katz Cites Complaints, Claims Political Bias

Katz defended the move, accusing Army Radio of broadcasting political and divisive content inconsistent with military values.

“Over the past two years, throughout the war, many soldiers and civilians, including bereaved families, have repeatedly complained that the station does not represent them and even undermines morale and the war effort,” Katz said.

He also argued that operating a public broadcaster under military authority is “an anomaly that does not exist in democratic countries.”

Legal Challenges and Political Backlash

Despite unanimous cabinet approval, the attorney general’s position suggests that the decision is likely to face legal and parliamentary challenges. Opposition lawmakers argue that bypassing the Knesset on such a significant media issue undermines democratic norms.

Netanyahu has long advocated either abolishing or privatizing Galei Tsahal, which in recent years has aired programming critical of his government.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the move, writing on X that the shutdown was part of a broader effort by Netanyahu’s government to curb free expression ahead of the 2026 elections.

“They cannot control reality, so they try to control minds,” Lapid said.

Netanyahu, who has confirmed his intention to seek re-election, urged ministers to back the decision, citing longstanding efforts to remove the station from military oversight.

(PC, Al Mayadeen)