Israel's parliament has approved a controversial media law that establishes a new media authority and grants the government significantly greater influence over its appointments, passing just before the Knesset is set to dissolve on 17 July ahead of elections scheduled for 27 October.
Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi defended the legislation, arguing the reform would liberalise the regulated sector by cutting bureaucracy and strengthening competition. Critics counter that the law enables the government to exert stronger influence over the media.
Petitions challenging the legislation have already been filed in court. The Knesset's dissolution on Friday clears the way for the planned 27 October snap election.