The Israeli government has made a definitive move to end the operations of one of the country's oldest media institutions. In a cabinet vote held on December 22, 2025, ministers approved the controversial closure of Army Radio, known locally as Galatz, after 75 years of continuous broadcasting.
A Historic Institution Comes to an End
The decision marks the culmination of a long-running debate about the role of the military-run station in Israel's modern media landscape. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pictured at the center of his cabinet during the meeting, publicly welcomed the move. The station, which first began broadcasting in the early years of the state, has been a staple for generations of Israeli listeners, offering a mix of news, music, and cultural programming alongside its original military-focused content.
For decades, Army Radio served as a unique training ground for many of Israel's most prominent journalists and broadcasters. Its closure signifies a major shift in the structure of Israeli public broadcasting and ends a direct channel of communication managed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Political and Public Reaction
The shutdown has not been without significant controversy. Critics of the decision argue that it represents a silencing of a diverse and historically important voice, one that often provided a platform for a wide range of perspectives. Proponents, including the Prime Minister, have framed the move as a necessary update to the country's media ecosystem, separating military functions from public broadcasting.
The final broadcast date for Galatz has not been immediately specified following the cabinet's approval. The station's frequency and resources are expected to be absorbed or redistributed within the framework of Israel's other public broadcasting services. This transition will involve the reassignment of military personnel who worked at the station and the end of its distinctive programming schedule.
The Legacy of 75 Years on Air
Since its founding, Army Radio evolved from a purely military communications tool into a general-interest station with substantial influence. Its news department was often highly competitive with civilian outlets, and its music programming helped shape Israeli popular culture. The closure severs a tangible link to the state's early history and alters the media diet for countless loyal listeners.
The government's resolution, passed on the morning of December 22, 2025, underscores a broader trend of restructuring within Israeli institutions. As the country moves forward, the end of Army Radio's 75-year run closes a significant chapter in the nation's broadcast history, leaving its future cultural and journalistic impact to be assessed by historians and the public alike.
