Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said Tuesday that free press is a cornerstone of democracy, especially during elections. He called an attempt to harm news workers in Israel a 'red line' and demanded that Israel Police handle it with utmost severity, according to Channel 12 News.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a strong statement Tuesday morning defending press freedom and calling on police to act immediately against any attempt to harm news workers. His remarks, reported by Channel 12's Daphna Liel, come as Israel approaches an election period and amid a series of incidents targeting media outlets.
The Zioneer has reported in recent weeks on attacks on Channel 12 news facilities, including a response from Police Commissioner Danny Levi, who said police 'will not allow harm to journalists.' President Isaac Herzog also warned earlier this month that defying a High Court ruling was a 'red line' for democracy. Bennett's statement uses similar language, emphasizing the principle of free press as a 'cornerstone of democracy.'
The statement adds to a growing public debate over the protection of journalists and the independence of the media in Israel, particularly during elections. No specific incident was cited by Bennett, but his demand for immediate police action indicates an ongoing concern over threats to news workers.
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