Borrell Condemns Israel's Closure of Al Jazeera Office in Ramallah
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has taken a strong stance against Israel's recent decision to shut down Al Jazeera's office in Ramallah, denouncing it as "very bad news". Borrell emphasized the critical role that Al Jazeera plays in reporting from Gaza, noting that it is one of the few outlets providing coverage amidst severe restrictions. He highlighted the network's sacrifice, referencing the tragic loss of its journalists in the conflict. According to Borrell, Israel's actions have resulted in the longest media blackout in Gaza's history, further complicating the already dire humanitarian situation.
The closure of Al Jazeera's office follows an armed raid by Israeli forces, which occurred early Sunday morning. Reports indicate that the Israeli army stormed the office, using explosives to breach the entrance and causing significant damage. The soldiers confiscated all equipment, documents, and issued a military order for the office's closure without providing clear justifications. This aggressive action has drawn widespread condemnation from various countries, officials, and human rights organizations, all calling for accountability and respect for press freedom.
Al Jazeera has publicly condemned the raid, asserting that such measures are designed to obscure the realities of the ongoing conflict in the occupied Palestinian territories. The network argues that these actions serve to prevent the international community from witnessing the conditions faced by Palestinians as the war in Gaza continues. The situation raises serious questions about media freedom and the right to report in conflict zones.
