Israel’s Communications Minister, Shlomo Karhi, has ordered the return of a camera and broadcasting equipment seized from The Associated Press (AP) in southern Israel. Officials had confiscated the items on Tuesday, accusing AP of violating a new media law by providing images to Al Jazeera. The seizure drew condemnation from journalism organizations, an Israeli opposition leader, and the White House.
“I have now ordered to cancel the action and return the equipment to the AP,” Karhi announced on X. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Defence will review the positioning of live video feeds from news outlets covering Gaza.
Al Jazeera, one of AP’s many clients, receives live video feeds from various news organizations. Lauren Easton, vice president of corporate communications at AP, expressed concern about the Israeli government’s use of the foreign broadcaster law and its impact on independent journalism.
The confiscation occurred in Sderot, where AP was broadcasting images of northern Gaza amidst ongoing Israeli military operations. AP stated it adheres to Israel’s military censorship rules, which restrict broadcasts that could endanger soldiers. The live feed typically showed smoke rising over Gaza.
The equipment was seized after AP ignored a verbal order to cease live transmissions. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the government’s actions as “an act of madness,” while the White House labeled the development as “concerning,” affirming the right of journalists to do their jobs.
Hamas condemned the seizure, calling it an oppressive act against press freedom meant to “cover up crimes” by Israeli forces. This incident follows a unanimous Israeli cabinet decision on May 5 to shut down Al Jazeera’s operations in the country, citing security threats. Al Jazeera has denied the accusations, maintaining its presence in Gaza to cover the conflict.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 35,647 Palestinian deaths, primarily women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. Israel’s assault on Gaza began on October 7 following a deadly attack by Hamas on southern Israel, which resulted in at least 1,139 Israeli deaths.–News Desk