The Knesset has passed the first reading of a controversial bill proposed by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, which aims to overhaul Israel's broadcast media regulation. The legislation would create a new regulatory council with most members appointed by the communications minister, granting the government substantial authority over broadcast media, including the power to impose significant fines.

Supporters argue the bill will foster competition and lower consumer costs, while critics, including the attorney general, warn it could threaten press freedom and enable political interference. The bill now moves to the Knesset Economics Committee for further debate and preparation ahead of its second and third readings.