Communications Minister Removes Key Consumer Benefit From Broadcast Law Amid Haredi Pressure

Less than two hours before a Knesset Communications Committee discussion on July 12, 2026, Communications Minister Shlomo Karai introduced a revised version of the broadcast law that significantly weakened consumer benefits and expanded content restrictions. The original bill included a flagship provision for a government streaming app that would replace the "Idan Plus" system, allowing free mobile viewing of public-interest sports events, particularly benefiting soldiers. However, Karai's new draft removed this section entirely, eliminating the obligation to broadcast free sports events on mobile devices. This move came after pressure from Haredi parties concerned about Sabbath violations, despite Karai's earlier admission that the app would reduce Sabbath desecration compared to the existing system.

Opposition MKs sharply criticized the changes. Yevgeny Sova (Yisrael Beiteinu) noted there was now no guarantee soldiers could watch sports for free on their phones, while Shelly Tal Miron (Yesh Atid) accused Karai of betraying the public by abandoning promises to empower consumers and reduce costs. The last-minute submission of the revised text to committee members also bypassed proper legal consultation, with legal advisor Adv. Matzada Metzlaoui clarifying that the legal team received the changes only on the day of the meeting and had limited time to prepare.

The revised law also introduced new content censorship powers, responding to threats from MK Avi Maoz (Noam) against freedom of expression. It empowered a new communications authority to impose content restrictions on multi-channel providers like HOT and yes, banning broadcasts involving religious conversion, violence, or sexuality, subject to approval by the Knesset Economics Committee. This marked a reversal from earlier government assurances that content would not be regulated in this way.

The contentious process and content of the law have drawn intense criticism within the Knesset, with MK Eitan Ginzburg (Blue and White) condemning the minister for harming soldiers and peripheral communities to appease narrow political interests. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is set to hold an unprecedented hearing on the broadcast reform before its final Knesset approval, reviewing three petitions challenging the legislation. Government legal advisor Gali Baharav-Miara has already expressed opposition to the current aggressive form of the bill.

The Knesset is rushing to pass the law before its dissolution at the end of the 25th Knesset, with general elections scheduled in about three months, making this a critical and controversial legislative moment.