RAMALLAH: Israeli occupation forces have stormed the Al Jazeera offices in Ramallah, ordering the closure of the Qatar-based news network for 45 days in a blatant violation of press freedom.
Reports indicate that heavily armed and masked Israeli soldiers forcibly entered the Al Jazeera offices shortly after midnight. They informed the staff of the closure of the office for at least 45 days.
Live footage broadcast by Al Jazeera captured the chaotic scene as the occupation forces compelled employees to vacate the premises immediately.
The soldiers presented the closure order to the West Bank bureau chief, Walid al-Omari, without providing any justification for the decision.
In response to the closure, the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate condemned the Israeli action, calling it a new aggression against journalism and media outlets. The syndicate urged all relevant organizations and institutions concerned to swiftly denounce this military decision and work to halt its implementation.
The syndicate express
ed solidarity with Al Jazeera and its journalists, stating that it is prepared to offer its resources and support to assist the channel’s staff during this challenging time.
Source: Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA