Israeli Media Unite to Condemn Rising Violence and Threats Against Journalists

Israel's leading media outlets, including Channel 12 News, Haaretz, Kan 11, and Channel 13 News, issued a joint statement on July 10, 2026, condemning the recent surge in physical threats and violence against journalists and media organizations. The statement highlighted a series of attacks, including the smashing of entrance doors at Channel 12 and Haaretz offices in Tel Aviv earlier that week, which were captured on security cameras showing masked individuals throwing bricks.

The media groups warned that these incidents are not isolated but part of an ongoing campaign of incitement and intimidation aimed at silencing free press. They emphasized that free journalism is a cornerstone of democracy and that attacks on journalists undermine the public's right to receive reliable and diverse information. The statement called on Israeli public leaders, including the president, prime minister, cabinet ministers, Knesset members, and party heads, to publicly denounce the incitement and violence against the press.

Furthermore, the media urged law enforcement authorities to act swiftly and decisively to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attacks to ensure journalists can work safely. The statement also referenced recent hateful graffiti and direct threats against commentators from Channels 12 and 13, naming individuals such as Guy Peleg, Amnon Abramovich, and Raviv Drucker. Notably, neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nor Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi have publicly condemned these incidents.

The media coalition pledged to continue their public mission without fear or silence, underscoring that a free press is essential for Israeli democracy, especially in the lead-up to elections.