Israel’s government has approved a boycott of the country’s oldest newspaper, Haaretz, following its critical reports.
On Sunday, ministers approved a proposal to prevent state-run bodies from placing ads or engaging with the newspaper, accusing it of publishing content that “hurts” the state.
Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi said the proposal had unanimous support, adding, “We will not allow a reality in which the publisher of an official newspaper in the state of Israel will call for the imposition of sanctions against it and will support the enemies of the state in the midst of a war and will be financed by it.” He emphasized the government’s right to deny funding to a publication he claims incites against Israel.
The proposal, which was added to the cabinet agenda at the last minute, had the backing of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Haaretz, Israel’s longest-running newspaper, has long been critical of the government, publishing investigations into corruption among Israeli officials and military figures. Recently, it has also called for an end to the Gaza war and the release of hostages taken by Hamas.
The Israeli government cited Haaretz’s editorial stance, particularly remarks by its publisher, Amos Schocken, who had spoken out against the government during a London conference. Schocken called Israel’s actions “cruel apartheid” and suggested sanctions against the Israeli government. Although Schocken later clarified that he did not consider Hamas “freedom fighters,” his comments were still seen as a provocation by the government.
In response, Haaretz accused Netanyahu of undermining Israeli democracy, calling the boycott move “opportunist” and arguing it came without legal review.
