Coalition passes media overhaul law, giving government greater regulatory control

The Knesset has passed a sweeping media overhaul law, giving the government greater regulatory control over Israel's broadcast media and news sector. The legislation, passed by a 53-48 vote, removes longstanding oversight mechanisms, minimum journalistic standards, and restrictions on cross-ownership, while expanding government influence over television ratings and state advertising. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, currently on trial for cases related to media control, participated in the debate, which critics argue violates his conflict-of-interest agreement. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi stated, "the mission you gave me four years ago — to deliver right-wing reform of the media — was today successfully completed." Immediately following its passage, several watchdog groups and political parties filed petitions with the High Court of Justice, requesting an interim order to freeze its implementation and ultimately strike down the law, citing severe procedural flaws and concerns about "irreversible damage to the media market" ahead of the October 27 election.