Story perspectives

Israel Knesset Passes Media Reform, AG Warns Press Threat

7/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel’s Knesset approved Minister Shlomo Karhi’s media-market reform bill in its second and third readings on July 16, 2026.
The law creates a single nine-member broadcast authority and lets the communications minister appoint six members.
Within minutes of the vote, six petitions were lodged in the High Court of Justice challenging the reform.
Attorney General Baharav-Miara warned that the bill threatens press freedom and lacks essential safeguards.

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Story summary

Israel’s Knesset approved Minister Shlomo Karhi’s media-market reform bill in its second and third readings on July 16, 2026.
The law creates a single nine-member broadcast authority and lets the communications minister appoint six members.
Within minutes of the vote, six petitions were lodged in the High Court of Justice challenging the reform.
Attorney General Baharav-Miara warned that the bill threatens press freedom and lacks essential safeguards.