News: Defamation in Israel – are the proposed amendments to the law objectionable?

In Israel the Knesset has been considering a bill amending the Libel Law that critics say could muzzle the country’s media if it becomes law. The Defamation Bill was given a first reading on 21 November 2011 by 42 votes to 31 after a heated debate.  It has been extremely controversial in Israel and has attracted adverse comment internationally.  It is difficult to see why.