National Press Club Statement on Israel’s Vote To Block Al Jazeera
WASHINGTON, April 1 – Following is a statement from Emily Wilkins, president of the National Press Club, and, Gil Klein, president of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, on the decision by the Israeli government to block Al Jazeera from broadcasting to Israeli citizens.
“We object to the announced decision by the government of Israel to block the news programing of Al Jazeera from reaching Israeli citizens. We furthermore object to any potential decision to order the shuttering of Al Jazeera bureaus in Israel.
“The people of Israel are in the midst of a critical debate about the policy of their government in its six-month war with Hamas, along with the broader direction of their government. What’s more, Al Jazeera’s coverage of what is happening in the occupied Palestinian territories is relied upon by millions of viewers around the world.
“At this pivotal juncture for Israeli democracy, any moves by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to end Al Jazeera’s reporting from Israel would be reminiscent of actions taken by illiberal governments to crack down on journalism they felt threatened their hold on power. Such anti-press freedom actions are unworthy of a fellow democracy that prizes its close relationship with the U.S. government and the American people.”
About the National Press Club
Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world’s leading professional organization for journalists. The Club has 3,000 members representing nearly every major journalism organization and is a leading voice for press freedom in the United States and around the world.
About the National Press Club Journalism Institute
The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged global citizenry through an independent and free press, and equips journalists with skills and standards to inform the public in ways that inspire a more representative democracy. As the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club, the Institute powers journalism in the public interest.
Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club