Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his intention to close down Al Jazeera’s operations within Israel, branding the network a “terror channel” that propagates incitement and collaborates with Hamas, according to recent reports.
Netanyahu’s announcement follows the approval of a bill by Israeli legislators, granting authorities the power to shutter Al Jazeera and other international news outlets perceived as security threats. Al Jazeera has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, leading to heightened tensions between the two entities.
The decision has sparked concerns regarding press freedom, with the White House expressing apprehension over the potential ban on Al Jazeera. The network has faced previous allegations of encouraging violence and displaying bias against Israel, resulting in clashes that have led to casualties amongst Al Jazeera journalists.
The move by Israel has drawn criticism from press freedom organisations, intensifying the already tense situation as the conflict between Israel and Al Jazeera unfolds.
A timeline of the conflict in Gaza
1. 1948 Arab-Israeli War: Following the establishment of the State of Israel, neighbouring Arab states invaded, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, including those in Gaza.
2. 1967 Six-Day War: Israel occupies Gaza Strip, along with the West Bank, Sinai Peninsula, and Golan Heights, after defeating Arab forces.
3. 1987-1993 First Intifada (Uprising): Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank rise up against Israeli occupation, leading to widespread protests and violence.
4. 2000-2005 Second Intifada: Renewed violence erupts in Gaza and the West Bank, marked by suicide bombings, Israeli military operations, and increased Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories.
5. 2005 Israeli Disengagement: Israel unilaterally withdraws from Gaza, dismantling settlements and removing military presence, but maintains control of borders, airspace, and sea access.
6. 2006 Hamas Victory: Hamas, considered a terrorist organisation by Israel and many Western countries, wins Palestinian legislative elections and takes control of Gaza.
7. 2007 Hamas-Fatah Conflict: Fierce fighting erupts between Hamas and Fatah, leading to Hamas’ complete control of Gaza, while Fatah retains control of the West Bank.
8. 2008-2009 Gaza War (Operation Cast Lead): Israel launches a military operation in response to rocket attacks from Gaza, resulting in significant casualties and destruction.
9. 2012 Gaza Conflict (Operation Pillar of Defense): Another round of fighting erupts between Israel and Hamas, resulting in casualties and destruction on both sides.
10. 2014 Gaza War (Operation Protective Edge): The most recent major conflict, characterised by intense fighting, airstrikes, and rocket attacks, resulting in thousands of casualties, widespread destruction, and international condemnation of Israel’s military tactics.
11. 2021 Gaza-Israel Clashes: Tensions escalate over planned evictions of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem, leading to protests and clashes. Conflict intensifies with Hamas firing rockets into Israel and Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.
12. 2024 Current Situation: Ongoing tensions persist between Israel and Gaza, with periodic flare-ups of violence, including rocket attacks from Gaza and Israeli military responses. Efforts to broker ceasefires and long-term solutions continue amidst challenges of political divisions and entrenched hostilities.
This timeline provides an overview of the major events and conflicts in the Gaza region, highlighting the complex and protracted nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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