Recording or taking unauthorized pictures of Israeli soldiers clashing with Palestinians could soon bring criminal charges and penalties if legislation proposed by members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hawkish coalition is enacted into law.
On Sunday, the Israeli government endorsed the proposal, which seeks to criminalize the filming and/or distribution of images and video footage showing certain Israeli military operations — if the aim is “hurting a soldier’s spirit” or “harming national security.” A conviction for such crimes could carry prison terms of five to 10 years.
The legislation, which must be approved by parliament, appears to be an attempt by the government to curb left-wing organizations critical of Israel’s ongoing military occupation and its treatment of Palestinians. Many of the groups rely on amateur video footage to hold Israel accountable for its treatment of Palestinians.
The bill comes after a wave of incriminating videos showing troops abusing and, in some cases, killing Palestinians that have gone viral on social media or been featured in the mainstream media..!
