Controversial Decision: Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant Orders Closure of 75-Year-Old "Army Radio," Citing Harm to "War Effort and Morale"

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced on Wednesday a decision to permanently close the Israel Army Radio (Galei Tzahal) by March 1, 2026. The announcement sparked sharp criticism from within the security and media establishments, as Gallant justified his move by claiming the station "harms the war effort and morale."

Rationale for Closure:

In an official statement, Gallant explained that the Ministry of Defence "will form a professional team to oversee the closure process, assist civilian staff with termination arrangements, while maintaining the continued operation of the radio's music station (Galgalatz)." The decision is slated to be presented to the government soon for final approval.

The Minister offered several justifications, emphasizing that the goal is to "preserve the non-partisan nature of the Israeli Army." He stated:

• Unprecedented Civilian Nature: "Operating a station with a civilian nature by the Army is an unprecedented phenomenon in any country."

• Morale Damage: "The Army Radio was established to be a voice for soldiers and their families, not a platform for views that attack the Army. During the war, we received complaints from soldiers and civilians that the station harms morale, and its messages are even interpreted as emanating from the Army itself."

History of Political Controversy:

The radio station, founded in 1950, is a prominent media institution that has, over 75 years, combined a military character with civilian content, making it a constant subject of debate regarding its affiliation with the military or an independent civilian body.

In March 2025, Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi called for its closure, supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the grounds that it had become a "political platform, instead of a means to boost soldiers' morale." This current decision contradicts a previous plan by former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, who, in September 2023, canceled a closure plan and vowed to reform the station.

Reactions and Legal Challenge:

In response to the decision, the Israeli Journalists' Association announced its fierce criticism, vowing to legally challenge the closure, indicating that the battle over the fate of the long-standing radio station is heading to the courts.