Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara responded on Tuesday to the petition regarding the closure of Army Radio, criticizing the government's handling of the media outlet's future.
She stated, "The decision is illegal, contains numerous serious flaws, and the goal was clearly predetermined. It was made hastily, without considering alternatives, and forms part of a broader pattern of actions intended to restrict press freedom in Israel, creating a chilling effect on free media."
The decision to close Army Radio, which has been in operation for 75 years, has prompted multiple petitions, including those from the Journalists' Organization and the Movement for Quality Government. In response to these petitions, Supreme Court President Isaac Amit issued an interim order to freeze the government's decision until a further ruling is made.
Baharav-Miara expressed her belief that the government's decision to shut down Army Radio aims to silence a central media outlet in Israel. "The station is part of Israel's public broadcasting system and is one of only two national Hebrew public radio stations that operate news desks, provide current affairs programming, and adhere to established journalistic principles. It is the second most balanced current affairs station in Israel," she stated.
She further explained that the decision to close the station is not an isolated action but rather part of a larger effort to fundamentally change Israel’s broadcasting market. This would weaken the market for news and current affairs broadcasts, both public and commercial, diminishing the diversity of available opinions.
Government is 'using its power' against media
She emphasized that the government is using its power against media outlets that do not align with its perspectives, including print media.
Baharav-Miara's statement continued, "The decision to close the station was made quickly, within just a few weeks. As outlined, it appears that the goal was set from the beginning. The process seemed designed to ensure the desired outcome, ignoring the harm to freedom of speech caused by silencing the station and contributing to a broader strategy to limit press freedom in Israel."
“This is occurring in the months leading up to the general elections - not only does it seem that the goal was predetermined, but the urgency of implementing these steps reinforces that impression, especially regarding the substantive considerations behind the decision."