Israel closes Palestinian media groups in W. Bank raids

By Kaamil Ahmed

JERUSALEM (AA) – Israeli forces closed several Palestinian media companies in the occupied West Bank in a wave of raids overnight Tuesday, drawing criticism from the Palestinian Authority (PA).

The Israeli military authority in the occupied territories, COGAT, said in a statement that they raided eight Palestinian companies, accusing them of inciting violence against Israel.

"These practices are part of a mentality that rejects peace," said Palestinian government spokesman Yusuf Mahmoud.

Israel also reportedly detained 14 Palestinians in overnight raids across the West Bank, according to Palestinian news agency Ma'an.

The raids came a week after rival Palestinian groups Hamas and Fatah reached a deal to heal their decade-long rift and form a unity government.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last week that Israel is opposed to any deal involving Hamas unless the group disarms and recognizes Israel, requests which have also been made by the U.S.