Netanyahu calls on Knesset to pass 'Al Jazeera law' today, allowing closure of foreign news networks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the Knesset to pass the so-called Al Jazeera law this evening, which would allow the government to shut down foreign news networks operating in Israel.

The law would allow the prime minister and the minister of communications to order the closure of foreign networks in Israel and confiscate their equipment if they believe they pose "an actual harm to the state's security".

Netanyahu promised to "immediately act to close Al Jazeera" after the law passes.

The prime minister's Likud party said that he spoke with coalition whip Ofir Katz to ask him to ensure the bill's passing through second and third readings today.