Story perspectives

Knesset Approves Broadcast Law, Grants Channel 14 $14 M Boost

7/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Knesset approved the Communications (Broadcasting) Law, 5786-2026, by a 53-48 vote.
The law creates a Broadcast Communications Authority funded with a 25 million-shekel annual budget from the public broadcaster.
It eliminates minimum journalistic standards, investment mandates for Israeli productions, and cross-ownership restrictions.
A last-minute amendment exempts pro-government Channel 14, granting it an estimated NIS 40 million ($13.8 million) annual advantage.

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Story summary

The Knesset approved the Communications (Broadcasting) Law, 5786-2026, by a 53-48 vote.
The law creates a Broadcast Communications Authority funded with a 25 million-shekel annual budget from the public broadcaster.
It eliminates minimum journalistic standards, investment mandates for Israeli productions, and cross-ownership restrictions.
A last-minute amendment exempts pro-government Channel 14, granting it an estimated NIS 40 million ($13.8 million) annual advantage.