Israeli Media Outlets Unite Against Rising Violence and Threats Targeting Journalists

Major Israeli media organizations including Channel 12, Haaretz, Kan 11, and Channel 13 issued a joint statement on July 10, 2026, condemning the recent surge in physical attacks and threats against journalists and media offices. The statement highlighted a pattern of escalating intimidation aimed at silencing free press ahead of upcoming elections, emphasizing that such violence threatens the public's right to reliable information.

Earlier in the week, the glass doors of Channel 12 and Haaretz newsrooms in Tel Aviv were smashed by assailants throwing bricks, as captured by security cameras. Police have launched investigations into these incidents. Additionally, hateful graffiti and direct threats were sprayed near Channel 12’s offices, targeting prominent commentators including Guy Peleg, Amnon Abramovich, and Raviv Drucker.

The media outlets called on Israeli public leaders, including the President, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, government ministers, Knesset members, and party heads, to publicly denounce the violence and incitement against the press. They also urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and decisively to identify and prosecute those responsible, ensuring journalists can work safely.

The statement stressed that free journalism is a cornerstone of democracy and that attacks on media personnel undermine the entire society’s right to information. Despite the competitive nature of the media landscape, the organizations united in defending press freedom and vowed to continue their public mission without fear or silence.

Notably, neither Prime Minister Netanyahu nor Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi have condemned the attacks or threats against journalists so far.