Protests have erupted across Israel in response to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposed judicial reforms, which would weaken the Supreme Court and strengthen parliament. The demonstrations have reached a boiling point this week, resulting in clashes between protestors and police in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
People are protesting out of concern that these reforms will lead to a more autocratic regime under Netanyahu’s leadership. The prime minister is currently facing corruption charges, leading many to believe that these proposals are an attempt to consolidate power and protect himself. Despite opposition from lawmakers, the parliament voted in favor of Netanyahu’s judicial reform bill.
The protests have gained significant attention, with even national newspapers displaying entirely black front pages as a sign of solidarity. Protest groups, including hi-tech companies, have run ads describing it as a “black day for Israeli democracy.” These demonstrations have been ongoing for months, initially causing Netanyahu to pause the overhaul. However, after failed negotiations with opposition MPs, he decided to roll out the proposals gradually instead of enacting them all at once.
Critics argue that Netanyahu and his allies in parliament seek to change the law to gain more control over elections and remove the country’s independent attorney general. The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in monitoring executive power in Israel, as there is no secondary lawmaking body. Concerns have also been raised about Netanyahu’s coalition, known for supporting full annexation of the occupied West Bank and limiting the rights of marginalized groups.
The recently approved bill by the parliament includes provisions to restrict the Supreme Court’s ability to strike down government decisions. It would only require a simple majority in parliament to overturn such decisions. Additionally, parliament would have the final say in selecting judges. Supporters of the bill argue that it restores power to elected officials and reduces the influence of unelected judges. However, opponents view it as a power grab that could lead to arbitrary decisions, corruption, and improper appointments.
The tensions surrounding these reforms are likely to continue. The Histadrut trade union confederation has threatened a general strike, and some military reservists have considered refusing to report to duty if the bill passes. Opposition leader Yair Lapid plans to challenge the law in the Supreme Court, potentially delaying its implementation. Failure to uphold a court order could result in a constitutional crisis. The passing of the bill has drawn criticism even from allies like the White House, with US President Joe Biden acknowledging the divisive nature of the reforms. Israel’s president has warned of a national emergency.
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