Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi has called for the military to sever ties with the Haaretz newspaper after columnist Gideon Levy labeled a senior military commander a 'war criminal.' Karhi accused Haaretz of inciting against soldiers and described the publication as antisemitic and anti-Zionist. The controversy centers on comments made by Major General Avi Bluth, who said a West Bank village would 'pay a heavy price' following a shooting attack by one of its residents, prompting criticism and accusations of collective punishment.

The military has defended Bluth, with Chief Eyal Zamir speaking out in his support. The army recently uprooted thousands of olive trees in the village and imposed a curfew, actions it described as operational necessities. Karhi has also pushed to end state subscriptions and advertising in Haaretz, escalating tensions between the government and the newspaper.