Arabic version: تبدأ لجنة الاتصالات الفيدرالية مراجعة تراخيص ديزني بعد نكتة كيميل المثيرة للجدل

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to conduct an early review of Disney’s television broadcast licenses. This decision follows remarks made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel regarding Melania Trump, which drew criticism from President Donald Trump.

According to BBC News, Trump called for Kimmel’s dismissal from ABC, Disney’s subsidiary, after the comedian joked that Melania Trump had the glow of an “expectant widow.” This comment came just days before a gunman fired shots at a gala event attended by the Trumps.

The FCC’s order requires Disney to submit license renewal applications for all its licensed TV stations within 30 days, despite the fact that these licenses were not due for renewal until 2028. The review could potentially result in the revocation of broadcasting licenses, a rare action not taken by the commission in more than 40 years.

Democratic FCC commissioner Anna M Gomez criticized the agency’s order, labeling it “a political stunt” and asserting that it is both unprecedented and unlawful. She encouraged companies to challenge the order, emphasizing that the First Amendment supports their position.

The White House has intensified its pressure on ABC to terminate Kimmel’s show, with Communications Director Steven Cheung stating that Kimmel should be “shunned for the rest of his life.” Kimmel defended his comments during his show, asserting that they were intended as a light-hearted joke and not a call to violence.

The FCC, established in 1934, is responsible for regulating broadcast frequencies and ensuring compliance with public interest standards. Trump’s previous remarks about revoking licenses from networks that provide unfavorable coverage have raised concerns about the administration’s influence over media outlets.