Palestinian Authority Halts Al Jazeera’s Operations Following Jenin Coverage

Ramallah (Quds News Network)- The Palestinian Authority (PA) announced on Wednesday the suspension of Al Jazeera’s operations in Palestine, citing alleged violations of Palestinian laws. The move, which followed Al Jaeera’s coverage of the PA’s assault against Jenin refugee camp, affects the network’s broadcasting and halts the activities of its staff within the West Bank.

The official Palestinian news agency (Wafa) stated that the decision came in response to Al Jazeera’s “manipulation, interference in internal affairs, and dissemination of misleading and incendiary reports.” The PA described the suspension as temporary, pending the network’s compliance with legal regulations.

Al Jazeera condemned the decision, linking it to a broader campaign against its journalists. Last week, the network criticized incitement against its reporters in the West Bank, particularly correspondent Mohammed Al-Atrash. This came after Al Jazeera’s coverage of the PA security forces’ crackdown on Jenin refugee camp.

The decision came following an incitement campaign against Al Jazeera correspondents, who covered the PA’s assaults in Jenin refugee camp.

It also follows similar actions by Israeli authorities. In September, Israeli forces raided Al Jazeera’s bureau in Ramallah, confiscated equipment, and shut down operations. The raid was justified under accusations of “incitement and support of terrorism.” The Israeli military also prevented journalists from accessing their vehicles and using the office.

Israel intensified its crackdown on Al Jazeera earlier this year. In May, the Israeli government approved a proposal by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi to close the network’s offices in Israel. The decision was enacted under the so-called “Al Jazeera Law.”