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January 09, 2025 – Palestine/Israel –
A recent report by ARTICLE 19 paints a grim picture of media repression in the West Bank, with both the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Israeli forces systematically curtailing press freedom. The crackdown includes suspensions, arrests, censorship, and even deadly violence against journalists and media institutions operating in the region.
On January 5, 2025, the PA suspended Al Jazeera’s operations in the West Bank and blocked its website for four months, citing allegations of “provocative content” and “incitement.” The suspension, carried out under cybercrime laws and upheld by a Ramallah court, lacks independent oversight and has drawn strong criticism from press freedom advocates. ARTICLE 19 argues the move is disproportionate, legally dubious, and intended to suppress coverage critical of the PA, particularly its role in the Gaza conflict and internal governance issues.
The report also highlights the tragic killing of journalism student Shatha Al Sabbagh during a security raid in Jenin. While her family holds the PA responsible, officials deny involvement. ARTICLE 19 calls for an impartial and transparent investigation, noting the increasing risks faced by Palestinian journalists, especially in conflict zones like Jenin and Nablus.
Simultaneously, Israeli forces have escalated their crackdown on journalists. Since October 2023, at least 75 journalists have been arrested, with 70 detained by Israeli authorities. Raids, equipment seizures, physical assaults, and direct targeting of media crews during military operations have become commonplace. Notably, Israel has imposed a 60-day closure of Al Jazeera’s Jerusalem office and obstructed coverage in hotspot areas like Tulkarm and Jenin by using roadblocks and expelling reporters.
ARTICLE 19 warns that both the PA and Israel are undermining public access to vital information during a time of humanitarian crisis. The group demands the immediate restoration of press access, the end of arbitrary arrests and censorship, and legal accountability for the killing and harassment of journalists.
Without urgent action, the region risks sliding into deeper repression, silencing voices essential for documenting human rights violations and ensuring democratic accountability amid one of the most volatile conflicts in the world.
Reference –
Palestine: Uphold media freedom and protect journalists in the West Bank
