Aug 21, 2026

Israel News Today: High Court Annuls Decision to Close Army Radio as European Powers Condemn E1 Plan

The High Court of Justice unanimously overturned the government's decision to close Army Radio, ruling that ministers were guided by an "improper motive" to interfere in editorial content; ministers vowed to keep trying to shut the station. France, Germany, Britain and Italy condemned Israel's E1 settlement tenders, and the EU was reported to be preparing sanctions if construction begins.

Court Strikes Down Army Radio Closure

A three-judge High Court panel ruled unanimously that the government was guided by an "improper motive" to interfere in editorial content when it approved closing Army Radio in December, The Times of Israel reported.

Ministers Vow to Keep Fighting

Defense Minister Israel Katz accused the court of "placing its own judgment above that of the elected government ministers," as ministers vowed to keep trying to shut the station, The Times of Israel reported.

European Powers Condemn E1 Plan

France, Germany, Britain and Italy condemned Israel's plan to publish construction tenders in the E1 area of the central West Bank, The Times of Israel reported.

Report: EU Preparing Sanctions Over E1

The European Union is preparing a package of sanctions, including labelling all Israeli products, if Israel goes ahead with E1 construction, Channel 13 reported, The Times of Israel reported.

Poll: Bennett Gains at Eisenkot's Expense

A Zman Yisrael poll showed a bump for Naftali Bennett's B'Yachad at the expense of Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar, with the deadlock between the blocs unchanged, The Times of Israel reported.

US Approves Refuelling Planes for Qatar

The US approved a potential $4.5 billion sale of up to four KC-46A refuelling aircraft to Qatar, which has acted as a mediator in Washington's war with Iran, The Times of Israel reported.