Thousands Rally in Tel Aviv Against Controversial Judicial Reform
Thousands of Israelis rallied in Tel Aviv late Thursday to demonstrate against the parliament’s endorsement of a crucial component in the controversial judicial reform package proposed by the hard-right government.
Pushing Through a Bill
On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition allies pushed through a bill in the chamber, which opponents say opens the way to more authoritarian government.
Limiting the “Reasonableness” Clause
The bill limits the “reasonableness” clause used by the Supreme Court to overturn government decisions that the judges deem unconstitutional.
Protesters Rally for Democracy
Waving Israeli flags and chanting “Democracy, Democracy!” protesters rallied on Thursday evening in Tel Aviv, the epicenter of the demonstrations since the judicial overhaul package was first unveiled in January.
Controversial Reforms and Divided Nation
The controversial reforms have split the nation and triggered one of the biggest protest movements in Israel’s history.
On Monday, lawmakers passed the bill with 64 votes in the 120-seat chamber after opposition lawmakers boycotted the vote, chanting “shame, shame.”
Balance of Power and Protests
Netanyahu’s coalition government, which includes far-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, argues that the proposed changes are needed to ensure a better balance of power between elected officials and the courts.
Protesters had demonstrated late into the night after the vote on Monday, and police had to use water cannon and mounted officers to disperse them.
Arrests and Amendment
Dozens of protesters were also arrested.
An amendment to the “reasonableness” clause is the first major component of the reform package to become law.
Other proposed changes include allowing the government a greater say in the appointment of judges.
Accusations and Denials
Critics accuse Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption on charges that he denies, of trying to use the reforms to crush possible judgments against him.
He rejects the accusation.
The “reasonableness” clause was most recently cited by Israel’s top court to force Netanyahu to remove an ultra-Orthodox Cabinet member over a previous tax evasion conviction.
The protests have drawn support from across the political spectrum and among secular and religious groups, blue-collar and tech sector workers, peace activists and military reservists.
