Knesset Passes Karhi's Media Overhaul Law 53-48 in Pre-Dissolution Blitz

The Knesset voted 53-48 to pass Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi's sweeping media overhaul, part of a coalition legislative blitz before the Knesset dissolves ahead of the October 27, 2026 election. The law expands government control over broadcast media, removing longstanding oversight mechanisms, minimum journalistic standards, obligations to invest in original Israeli productions, and cross-ownership restrictions, while giving government greater influence over ratings and state advertising. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and opposition lawmakers warned it threatens press freedom and enables political interference in media.