During the meeting, Gallant stated that the continued operation of the radio station is an “anomaly that does not exist in democratic countries,” stressing that it provides a platform for views that “attack the army and its soldiers,” and that its interference in politics harms the cohesion of the army, while Israel’s opponents may interpret its messages as official positions issued by the military establishment.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the decision, describing the existence of a military radio station operating under the authority of the army as a situation that “may exist in North Korea,” but is not appropriate for Israel.
For their part, Ministers Ze’ev Elkin and Dudi Amsalem drew attention to the fact that the legal basis for the radio station’s operation is “fragile,” and explained that the license granted to it in 1950 was a “temporary decision for one experimental year,” and no subsequent permanent decision was issued.
In conjunction with the closure decision, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued directives for an immediate halt to all screening and recruitment operations at the radio station, whether for regular or reserve service, and a halt to the assignment of new soldiers to it.
It was also decided to begin a gradual redistribution process for the current staff of the station to various army units, giving priority to combat units and others that support combat.
In contrast, Gallant clarified that the “Galei Tzahal,” station, which is also affiliated with the army but does not broadcast political programs, will be subject to a separate study to ensure its continued operation while maintaining its distinctive nature.
In addition, the minister ordered the termination of contracts with external consultants and journalists, and to work on regularizing the status of civilian employees in the army affiliated with the radio station, with these measures to enter into force by February 15, 2026, in preparation for the complete cessation of broadcasting two weeks after that date.
