The Al Jazeera Media Network has strongly condemned the decision by the Israeli regime to extend the ban on its operations for another 90 days, encompassing the suspension of broadcasts, office closures, and restricted access to digital platforms. In a formal statement, the Qatar-based broadcaster characterized the move as a blatant assault on press freedom and the public's fundamental right to independent information.

The development follows a ruling by a Tel Aviv court approving the Israeli authorities' push to prolong the restrictive measures. Back in May 2024, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet had reportedly voted to shut down Al Jazeera's operations under controversial legislation permitting the temporary closure of foreign media outlets deemed to be a threat to national security. Furthermore, in September of that same year, armed forces allegedly stormed the network's office in Ramallah, seizing equipment and shutting the bureau down.

Al Jazeera stated that it categorically rejects the allegations used to justify the ongoing ban and demanded an immediate reversal of the policy. The network pointed out that the extension relied heavily on undisclosed secret materials which neither the organization nor its legal counsel were permitted to review, thereby denying any genuine opportunity for defense or due process.

Throughout years of targeted pressure, numerous Al Jazeera journalists have faced severe hazards in conflict zones. Despite the escalating clampdown by the Israeli regime, the network confirmed it is reviewing the judicial decision with its legal counsel and preserves the right to pursue all appropriate measures to protect its staff and uphold journalistic integrity.

Source: www.aljazeera.com