Israel wants to abolish Army Radio. Netanyahu faces criticism from journalists

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz plans to close Army Radio, a publicly funded but editorially independent station that employs both soldiers and civilians. According to Katz, this is an effort to keep the army impartial.

The decision has drawn criticism. The radio director called it a dramatic blow to press freedom, while the opposition called it an attack on critical journalists and a preparation for elections.

The radio station has long been a thorn in the side of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government, which, along with public broadcaster KAN, accuses it of bias.

Critics say it is an attack on democratic institutions, while journalists' associations vow resistance. The opposition says the government is afraid of criticism.

A proposal for closure is due to be submitted soon, with a deadline of 1 March. It is not clear when the government will decide on it.

(reuters, swag)