Glass Doors at Israel's Channel 12 News Office Vandalized Twice in One Month

The glass doors of the Channel 12 news building in Tel Aviv were smashed overnight between July 27 and 28, marking the second such attack within a month. The police have launched an investigation into the incident. Earlier in July, an unknown assailant threw a brick at the building's doors, as captured by security cameras, but no suspects have been arrested so far.

Channel 12 condemned the attack, calling it a "real alarm" and urging the Israeli government and Communications Minister to stop inciting violence against free media. They emphasized that the safety of journalists is not to be taken lightly and demanded immediate police action to prevent further violence.

Several political figures also responded to the vandalism. Gadi Eizenkot, former IDF Chief of Staff and leader of the Yisrael party, blamed the government for a systematic campaign of incitement against the media, which he said legitimizes violence. Avigdor Lieberman, head of Yisrael Beiteinu, strongly condemned the criminal act and called on police to apprehend those responsible. Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party, linked the attack to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s divisive rhetoric, describing it as an assault on democracy and free press.

This attack follows a similar incident earlier this month targeting the Haaretz newspaper offices, where masked individuals threw bricks at the entrance. In recent months, hateful graffiti against Channel 12 journalists has also appeared near their offices, including threatening messages referencing political figures and judicial institutions.

Police Chief Danny Levi recently stated that no harm to media outlets or journalists will be tolerated. The ongoing vandalism and incitement highlight escalating tensions surrounding press freedom in Israel amid a charged political climate.