Overview
- Defense Minister Israel Katz said he will bring a resolution to close Galei Zahal, arguing the move preserves the IDF’s nonpartisan character after broadcasts he said attacked soldiers.
- Katz set a target to end broadcasts by March 1, 2026 and said a Defense Ministry team will manage the shutdown and assist civilian employees.
- The ministry plans to preserve the sister station Galgalatz and maintain its road-safety mission, according to Katz’s announcement.
- Army Radio operates as an editorially independent, publicly funded outlet staffed by soldiers and civilians and is widely popular, Reuters reported.
- Station chief Tal Lev-Ram vowed to fight the plan, the Israel Press Council called it improper and illegal under primary legislation, and opposition and journalist groups condemned the move, with the timing of the government submission still unclear.