Protests Erupt in Israel Over Controversial Judicial Reforms

For months, hundreds of thousands of Israelis have been taking to the streets to protest proposed changes to the country’s legal system. Tensions rose further this past weekend when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu abruptly fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over his opposition to the planned overhaul, prompting mass street protests and widespread strike action.

Netanyahu announced on Monday that Israel’s contentious judicial overhaul legislation will be put on hold until the next session of the Knesset, after the Passover recess in April. The nation’s largest labor union called an end to the strike following Netanyahu’s announcement.

At its core, the judicial overhaul would give the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, and consequently the parties in power, more control over Israel’s judiciary. Opponents argue this plan threatens the foundations of Israeli democracy.

People scuffle with police in Jerusalem during a protest outside the Knesset, Israel's parliament, on Monday, March 27. — People scuffle with police in Jerusalem during a protest outside the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, on Monday, March 27.

Ariel Schalit/AP

People protest outside the Knesset on March 27. AP

People attend a demonstration in Jerusalem on March 27. Ammar Awad/Reuters

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a meeting at the Knesset on March 27. Netanyahu and his supporters argue that the Supreme Court has become an insular, elitist group that does not represent the Israeli people. They contend it has overstepped its role, becoming involved in issues that should not be within its jurisdiction.

Netanyahu, defending his plans, has pointed to countries like the United States, where politicians have control over the appointment and approval of federal judges. This comparison is controversial and has sparked intense debate surrounding judicial independence.