The Knesset Assembly has rejected MK Yoel Hasson's (Zionist Union) "Roi Sharon Bill" in its preliminary reading.
The resolution called for punishing those who attack journalists for fulfilling their duties with three years in prison. If the attack was ruled to be under aggravating circumstances, the punishment would be five years in prison.
MK Hasson said, "Attacking journalists is a serious issue that constitutes a clear attack on the watchdog of democracy. The reason that the government opposes this bill is that the government enjoys violent and hate-filled discourse. The government directs the public to hate and to hit journalists because this is what strengthens the conspiracy of silence."
He continued: "When the public sees how the Prime Minister controls the media, what prevents the public from attacking journalists? The public gets legitimacy to attack journalists and to silence them with fists and threats."