TEL AVIV. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government announced the closure of Al Jazeera’s local offices in a unanimous decision on Sunday, intensifying Israel’s longstanding conflict with the Qatar-owned broadcaster. The move comes amidst heightened diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire with Hamas, facilitated by Qatar, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.

According to a statement from Netanyahu’s office, the decision takes immediate effect, potentially leading to the closure of Al Jazeera’s offices, confiscation of broadcast equipment, and the blocking of its reports and websites within Israel. The decision allows Israel to bar the channel from operating in the country for 45 days, citing allegations of security threats and incitement by Al Jazeera reporters.

“Al Jazeera reporters harmed Israel’s security and incited against soldiers,” Netanyahu stated, emphasizing the necessity to remove what he referred to as the “Hamas mouthpiece” from Israel.

This unprecedented move marks the first time Israel has taken such drastic action against a foreign news outlet. The decision follows a law passed last month allowing the government to target foreign channels deemed detrimental to the country’s interests.

While there was no immediate response from Al Jazeera headquarters in Doha, correspondents on the network offered insights into the potential impact of the closure. Al Jazeera’s Arabic correspondent highlighted the effect on operations in Israel and East Jerusalem, where live shots have been conducted since the onset of the conflict in Gaza. However, operations in the Palestinian territories are expected to continue unaffected.

The decision threatens to strain relations with Qatar, a key mediator in the ceasefire negotiations alongside Egypt and the United States. Netanyahu’s criticism of Qatar’s alleged leniency towards Hamas adds another layer of complexity to the delicate diplomatic efforts.

Shortly after the announcement, Cabinet members from the National Unity party expressed concerns about the timing of the decision, fearing it may undermine ongoing negotiations. However, they affirmed their general support for the government’s action.

Israel’s relationship with Al Jazeera has been fraught for years, exacerbated by allegations of bias and clashes between Israeli forces and the network’s reporters. Previous incidents, including the death of a correspondent during a military raid in the West Bank and the killing of a cameraman during the Gaza conflict, have further strained relations.

Al Jazeera, funded by Qatar’s government, has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, broadcasting scenes of violence and accusing Israel of atrocities. However, Israel accuses Al Jazeera of collaborating with Hamas, further fueling tensions.

While Al Jazeera’s English arm presents a more balanced view, its Arabic division has faced criticism for its coverage of militant groups in the region. The closure of Al Jazeera’s offices in Israel mirrors similar actions taken by other Middle Eastern governments, underscoring the network’s controversial status in the region.

The decision evokes memories of Egypt’s shutdown of Al Jazeera following the 2013 military takeover, reflecting the broader challenges faced by media outlets operating in politically volatile environments.