Ha'aretz is an independent daily newspaper with a broadly liberal outlook both on domestic issues and on international affairs. It has a journalistic staff of some 225 reporters, writers and editors. The paper is perhaps best known for its op-ed page, where its senior columnists - among them some of Israel's leading commentators and analysts - reflect on current events. Ha'aretz plays an important role in the shaping of public opinion and is read with care in government and decision-making circles.