Modeling and generalizing media systems based on select characteristics has been a practice of communication researchers for decades. In this study, the question of whether the Israeli media system can be seen as fitting the developmental, post-colonial, or sub-imperial models is discussed. A historical review of the establishment of the state at the end of hundreds of years of colonial rule and the effect colonial legislation has had on the development of the state’s media system help answer these questions. The history of the printed press, radio, and television, and in particular the policies regarding broadcasting to the Palestinian minority in Israel and to neighboring countries, sheds light on the model of media system that can be defined as the one characterizing Israel. The review concludes that the Israeli system has developmental as well as post-colonial features; however, while Israel may be seen as a sub-imperialist power serving the dominating role of the United States in the Middle East, this characterization does not apply to its media system.