Israel blocks websites of Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV

In response to security concerns, Israel has recently blocked the online presence of Al-Mayadeen, a Beirut-based, pro-Iranian TV channel. This decision, announced by Israeli Communication Minister Shlomo Karhi, came amidst rising tensions in the Gaza conflict, which has escalated fears of broader regional unrest.

Karhi, in a Facebook post, revealed that the security cabinet sanctioned emergency actions to prevent the channel from undermining Israel’s security. He further denounced Al-Mayadeen’s reporting, accusing it of supporting terrorist groups.

Although Al-Mayadeen has not officially responded, their Israeli correspondent has agreed to comply with the law. Additionally, Karhi has sought similar restrictions in the occupied West Bank and a Palestinian production company there has already severed ties with Al-Mayadeen.

Officials clarified that while Al-Mayadeen TV cannot be directly blocked due to its satellite broadcast, measures to restrict its journalists’ activities in Israel are being considered.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant criticized Al-Mayadeen, labeling it as a propaganda tool for Hezbollah and accusing its journalists of masquerading as reporters while supporting terrorism.

In a related development, the Israeli security cabinet had previously considered a proposal from Karhi’s office to shut down Al-Jazeera’s Israeli operations, citing national security threats. However, no action has been taken against Al-Jazeera as of yet.

The backdrop of these media-related actions is a broader conflict scenario. Hamas militants’ recent abduction of nearly 240 hostages and an attack on Israel, which reportedly resulted in approximately 1,200 civilian deaths, has led to a severe Israeli military response in Gaza, causing over 11,100 fatalities, mostly civilians.

Additionally, ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon have resulted in casualties on both sides, including Israeli soldiers and civilians, as well as Hezbollah fighters and Lebanese civilians.