The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned the Israeli government's decision to ban Al Mayadeen Media Network and its websites and to prevent its staff from working in the occupied Palestinian territories.

In a statement to Al Mayadeen, the spokesperson for the Commission, Ravina Shamdasani, emphasized that restricting journalists affects the ability to convey on-the-ground realities, analyze what is happening, and influence the international community's response, especially during times of conflict.

The Israeli occupation decision to ban Al Mayadeen in the occupied territories has faced widespread condemnation from various international and Arab entities, which expressed support for the channel, praised its role in reporting on Israeli crimes, and backed the Palestinian cause.

#AlMayadeen Media Network released a statement commenting on the recent Israeli ban on the network, renewing its commitment to professionalism and warning against any harm its journalists may be subjected to after labeling them as "terrorists" which reflects the gravity of the… pic.twitter.com/bVlSlDcFO3

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) August 11, 2024

On Sunday, the Israeli government approved a proposal by Communications Minister Shlomo Karai to renew the ban on the Al Mayadeen Media Network, seize its equipment, and block its internet sites.

Israeli media reported that the communications minister pushed for a new government decision following a "professional opinion" from security agencies and the approval of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Read more: Al Mayadeen addresses Israeli ban, warns against harming its staff