Israeli officials seized equipment belonging to The Associated Press in southern Israel on Tuesday, accusing the news organization of violating a new media law by providing images to Al Jazeera. The Qatari satellite channel is among thousands of clients that receive live video feeds from the AP and other news organizations. The AP denounced the move, calling it an abuse of the country’s foreign broadcaster law.
The Communications Ministry arrived at the AP location in Sderot and seized the equipment, alleging a violation of the law. The AP had been broadcasting a general view of northern Gaza, complying with Israel’s military censorship rules. The live shot showed smoke rising over the territory.
Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the government’s actions, calling it “an act of madness” and accusing them of trying to isolate Israel from the world. This incident follows a previous closure of Al Jazeera’s offices in Israel and the confiscation of their equipment.
Media groups have warned about the implications for press freedom in Israel, as the law gives the Communications Minister wide leeway to enforce it against other media outlets. The Foreign Press Association in Israel condemned the decision, saying it was a dark day for democracy.
Israel has a strained relationship with Al Jazeera, accusing it of bias against the country. Al Jazeera has remained in Gaza throughout the war, broadcasting scenes of airstrikes and overcrowded hospitals, accusing Israel of massacres. The conflict in Gaza has resulted in numerous casualties, with thousands of Palestinians killed.