**Israel Sanctions Haaretz Newspaper Over Critical War Coverage and Publisher's Comments**

In a significant move, Israel's cabinet has sanctioned Haaretz, the nation's oldest newspaper, following its critical reporting on the conflict that erupted after the October 7 Hamas attacks. The unanimous decision, driven by Communication Minister Shlomo Kar'i, will see the cessation of government advertising in Haaretz and the cancellation of all state employee subscriptions.

Haaretz, known for its international reputation and critical journalism, has been extensively covering Israel's wartime actions, including alleged abuses by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza and Lebanon. The newspaper's investigative reports have not gone unnoticed; they have stirred considerable debate within and beyond Israel's borders.

The situation intensified after comments made by Amos Schocken, Haaretz's publisher, at a London event on October 27. Schocken referred to Palestinian "freedom fighters" in his remarks, which drew heavy criticism. In his speech, Schocken deplored the Netanyahu government's policies, accusing it of imposing a "cruel apartheid regime" on Palestinians. He also controversially called for international sanctions on Israeli leaders, suggesting that such measures were necessary to enforce change.

Following the backlash, Schocken clarified that he did not consider Hamas militants to be freedom fighters, specifying that his comments were aimed at Palestinians living under occupation in the West Bank. Haaretz later acknowledged in an editorial that Schocken had erred, insisting that anyone who targets civilians should be labeled as "terrorists."

Minister Kar'i justified the cabinet's decision by citing numerous articles from Haaretz that he claimed undermined Israel's legitimacy and its right to self-defense. He argued that it was unacceptable for a state-financed outlet to support actions damaging to Israel, especially during a time of conflict.

Haaretz has vehemently opposed the sanctions, describing the move as an attempt to suppress independent journalism and likening it to actions taken by other authoritarian leaders. "Haaretz will not become a government mouthpiece," the newspaper asserted in a statement, vowing to maintain its editorial independence.

This development follows a broader trend of escalating tensions between the Israeli government and media outlets. Just two months ago, the military shut down Al Jazeera's office in Ramallah, and six months prior, the government halted the broadcaster's operations within Israel, sparking international condemnation.

The Haaretz sanctions represent another contentious chapter in Israel’s ongoing struggle with press freedom and governmental criticism amidst an intensely fraught period of conflict.