Israel bans 5 Palestinian media organisations from occupied East Jerusalem
Al Jazeera
February 23, 2026
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Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has banned five Palestinian media organisations based in East Jerusalem, accusing them of links to Hamas and incitement. The move comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine, with East Jerusalem remaining a focal point of political and military contention.
The banned organisations were accused of spreading propaganda that promotes hostility towards Israel, according to the minister’s order. This decision reflects Israel’s broader efforts to control narratives in areas it considers sensitive, such as East Jerusalem. Critics argue that such measures restrict free expression and further complicate an already volatile region.
International reactions have been mixed, with some countries expressing concern over restrictions on media freedom. Advocacy groups for press rights have condemned the ban, highlighting its potential impact on independent journalism in the region. The move has also drawn criticism from Palestinian officials, who view it as a escalation in Israel’s efforts to suppress dissent and control information.
This development underscores deeper issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where access to information and freedom of expression are often at risk. As tensions persist, such actions raise questions about the future of journalism in occupied territories and the broader implications for regional stability.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/23/2026