Outgoing Communications Minister Yoaz Hendel stated Israel will use recommendations provided by a communications committee that seeks to provide a “safer” online space. “Legal responsibility needs to be applied to digital platforms in relation to the distribution of illegal sexual content, incitement to violence and terrorism, and more,” said Communications Ministry Director-General Liran Avisar Ben-Horin. Horin explained that “the step [they] are taking today brings us closer to a more protected and safer online space while preserving freedom of expression.”
From Reclaim the Net:
The committee recommended that social media companies should be obligated to immediately remove illegal and offensive content, create an online hotline for reporting offensive and illegal content, create a system where users can appeal censorship and suspension decisions, and be more transparent. Courts will be given the power to issue content removal orders, and a social media regulator will be created. Platforms operating in Israel will be required to set up offices in Israel. ... Content that will require the immediate attention of platforms is intimate photos and bullying of minors. Social media platforms will also be required to monitor offensive content like the invasion of privacy, incitement to violence, threats, terrorism, racism, defamation, and sexual content.
