Israeli satellite TV company YES is planning to drop CNN International December 31, unless a new arrangement between the two companies is reached. YES controls approximately 39% of Israel’s multichannel video marketplace, so the loss would be a substantial one.

YES is the second multichannel video provider in Israel to drop CNNI recently. An Israeli cable provider, HOT, dropped CNNI in 2011, replacing it with MSNBC.

In dueling statements, YES cited the high cost of the channel, while CNN responded that it is of particular importance given the current U.S./Israel dynamic.

Yes said in response, “We have decided not to renew the contract with the CNN channel, which ends at the end of the year. These days the company is looking into alternatives for the channel.

“The company offers a variety of news channels in the English language, including Sky News, BBC World, Bloomberg, Fox News and more…”

“CNN is looking into ways to continue bringing the channel’s news to Israel. It should be noted that the US elections are approaching, and in light of the ongoing dynamics in the region and the global events affecting all of us, there is a need for independent and objective journalism.