Israeli Knesset Committee Rushes Broadcast Reform Bill Amid Political Tensions
In recent weeks, the Knesset's Communications Committee, chaired by MK Galit Distel Atbaryan, has been marked by intense disputes and high tensions as it races to pass the broadcast reform bill proposed by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi. The urgency stems from the looming possibility of Knesset dissolution, prompting marathon sessions and last-minute dramatic amendments to the legislation.
The core of Karhi's reform involves dismantling existing regulatory bodies, the Second Authority and the Cable and Satellite Council, and establishing a new Communications Authority. It also proposes eliminating broadcast licenses in favor of mandatory registration. However, the bill has faced sharp criticism from the Knesset legal counsel, government legal advisors, and industry professionals, who warn of significant flaws and rushed procedures. Over 3,000 objections have been submitted by various parties, including Yesh Atid, Yisrael Beiteinu, and Blue and White.
The committee's process has been chaotic, with sections read consecutively without separate discussions or sufficient time for legal review, leading to problematic draft language. Opposition members have used procedural tactics to delay progress, while coalition members push for rapid approval to avoid missing the legislative window before potential elections. The Knesset legal counsel is now tasked with finalizing the bill's wording, a process expected to take several days.
The reform has sparked fierce conflict within the media sector, particularly between Keshet Channel 12 and i24NEWS. Keshet and Reshet 13 claim the bill disproportionately harms them while favoring channels like 14 and i24NEWS, which benefit from new provisions such as the ability to broadcast via cable and satellite without traditional licensing fees. This amendment was explicitly designed to accommodate i24NEWS, which currently operates only over-the-top (OTT). The bill also lifts the ban on cable and satellite advertising, benefiting providers like HOT and yes.
Some changes cater to ultra-Orthodox parties, including restrictions on broadcasting content on Shabbat and Jewish holidays via the new authority's app. Yet, dissent remains, with MK Avi Maoz threatening to vote against the bill over concerns about Sabbath violations. Additionally, a controversial clause grants the Prime Minister authority, in consultation with security officials, to issue direct instructions to media outlets, raising further industry apprehension.
Overall, the legislative chaos reflects broader instability in Israel's media landscape, with trust eroding among regulators, professionals, and media entities. The coalition may resort to splitting the bill to salvage key provisions, leaving complex core issues unresolved. The ongoing turmoil underscores the challenges of enacting comprehensive media reform under tight political deadlines and intense sectoral pressure.
