UN stresses press freedom importance as Israel clamps down on Al Jazeera

The United Nations has emphasised the importance of press freedom following Israel’s decision to close broadcaster Al Jazeera’s operations in the country.
“We stand firmly against any decision to roll back freedom of the press,” said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in New York. “A free press provides an invaluable service to ensure that the public is informed and engaged.”
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his Cabinet had unanimously voted to close broadcaster Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel.
The move came after Israeli lawmakers approved a new media law widely referred to as the “Al Jazeera law” that gives the government powers to ban foreign broadcasters if they are deemed a risk to state security.
Al Jazeera decried the Israeli decision and vowed to pursue “all avenues” available to protect its rights and employees.
(dpa/NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette

Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

States
Two arrested for head-butting police officers in Kaduna
The prosecutor added that four wraps of dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp were found in the attackers’ possession.

States
Dozens of kidnap, rape, trafficking cases reported in Kano forest in April
The NHFSS commander said most of the complaints were on animal theft, phone snatching, rape, kidnapping, women trafficking, among others.

States
Ibadan man arrested for forging Oyo government’s document
Mr Oyetayo is standing trial on a count charge bothering on forgery of the hackney permit.

Opinion
Azu Ishiekwene: What’s in a book? You’ll never know, until…
What is in a book is the thing that might just change your life; but you’ll have to read it to find it.

Anti-Corruption
ICPC urges corps members to support anti-corruption fight
ICPC has advised corps members in Osun to join the fight against corruption and social vices.

Rights
Jurist seeks increased salaries for lower court judges
The Citizens Support for Lower Court Initiative has called for increased remuneration for lower court judges.