Controversial Bill to Block Judicial Review Advances in Israeli Knesset Amid Protests
Lawmakers in the Israeli Knesset passed the first reading of a controversial bill that seeks to block judicial review over the “reasonableness” of politicians’ decisions. The bill, which marks the first approval of a judicial overhaul bill since Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suspended the legislative package in March, passed by a vote of 64 to 56 after a stormy session that lasted late into the night. The legislation, which needs to pass two more readings to become law, aims to be completed before the Knesset breaks for the summer later this month.
The bill has sparked widespread protests both inside and outside the Knesset, with opposition lawmakers expressing concerns about its potential impact on the independence of the judiciary. Critics argue that the bill completely outlaws courts from using the judicial test to invalidate or discuss decisions made by politicians, removing an important check on arbitrary decision-making. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that the bill gives elected representatives the final say on policy and appointments.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid accused the coalition of pushing the bill for corrupt and self-serving aims, claiming it allows for the appointment of convicted criminals as ministers and the firing of the attorney general. He also alleged that the bill is designed to arrange a plea deal for Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces criminal charges in three separate cases.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, however, reassured the public in a video message that the legislation would not harm the rights of the courts or Israeli citizens. Justice Minister Yariv Levin echoed this sentiment, stating that the bill allows the government to carry out policies determined by the people, pushing back against the perceived interference of the courts.
Protests against the judicial overhaul bill erupted both inside and outside the Knesset. Demonstrators gained access to the parliamentary complex, attempting to block lawmaker access to the plenum. The Knesset Guard was forced to physically remove the protesters, leading to clashes and one individual being sent to the hospital. Outside the Knesset, more protesters gathered at the gates to voice their opposition to the bill.
The bill will now proceed to the second and third readings in the Knesset. The coalition is under pressure to soften the language of the bill, but no plan has been set yet. Critics warn that the passage of the legislation could lead to the erosion of judicial checks on political power and the removal of restrictions on the government.
The opposition has called on Prime Minister Netanyahu to halt the legislation and resume negotiations on judicial reform. However, the coalition has prioritized the judicial overhaul bills, leading to accusations that they are neglecting the concerns of the citizens regarding cost of living and security. The fate of the bill will ultimately be determined by the Knesset, but opponents have expressed hope that the High Court of Justice will intervene if necessary.