Despite mass protests, the Israeli parliament on Monday cleared the way for a controversial overhaul of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s judicial system. “A great night and a great day,” Netanyahu wrote on Twitter after the vote. Parliament debated late into the night before the proposed amendments were adopted at first reading.
Netanyahu was able to push through two reforms with his absolute majority of 64 of the 120 seats in the Knesset: one strengthens the government’s influence in selecting judges, the other restricts the powers of the Supreme Court to overturn laws. The changes are intended to end the interference of an unrepresentative Supreme Court in politics, the government said.
Critics say Netanyahu, accused of bribery, is seeking legislative changes that would undermine Israel’s democratic controls and balances, encourage corruption and lead to diplomatic isolation. The opposition in parliament announced that they would “fight for the soul of the nation.” Tens of thousands took to the streets against the reforms in the evening. Polls have shown that most Israelis want reforms to slow down to allow dialogue with critics – or do not want reforms.
Police arrested eight demonstrators
Demonstrators had previously tried to prevent members of the Netanyahu coalition from leaving for the Knesset. Police said eight people were arrested for disorderly conduct and traffic was diverted after protesters blocked some roads. “Protesters who talk about democracy are themselves bringing about the end of democracy when they deny elected MPs the fundamental right in a democracy – to vote,” Netanyahu said.
Given the instability of the reform dispute, many economists and high-tech and banking leaders have warned against a flight of investors and capital from Israel. “There is no connection between the judicial reforms and a blow to Israel’s economy,” Knesset finance committee chairman Moshe Gafni dismissed the warning.
Any attempt at a link is politically motivated. Israel’s head of state, President Isaac Herzog, has repeatedly called on the government and opposition to hold compromise talks. While both sides have indicated their readiness, they disagree on the terms.