Likud Blocks Haaretz Newspaper's 'It's Possible' Billboard Campaign Citing Election Propaganda

The Likud party recently halted a billboard advertising campaign by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz titled "It's Possible," which ran on prominent outdoor advertising sites. Likud sent warning letters to advertising companies demanding the removal of the campaign, arguing it constituted election propaganda aimed at instilling hope among voters that the outgoing coalition could be replaced in the upcoming elections. Haaretz maintained that the campaign was not a political call but a commercial promotion. Despite this, the advertisements were removed and the campaign discontinued.

In response, Haaretz issued a statement condemning the attempt to suppress its campaign, framing it as part of a broader government-led effort to delegitimize and intimidate independent and critical media since the current administration took office. The newspaper highlighted recent attacks on its own newsrooms and those of Channel 12, including a death threat letter left at Channel 12's offices. Haaretz emphasized that such violence arises in a public climate where the government repeatedly labels the media as an enemy. The statement underscored the dangers of legal pressure and ongoing incitement against journalists, affirming Haaretz's commitment to independent, fearless journalism.

Separately, the article noted political tensions with Shas MKs attacking the Supreme Court as a political body aiding the opposition, and the upcoming announcement of a joint list by the parties Hadash, Ta'al, and Balad.