Israeli Judicial Reform Law Passed, Triggering Nationwide Protests
The Knesset approved a controversial law increasing political control over judicial appointments, prompting mass demonstrations and legal challenges as tensions escalate between the government and opposition.
- The Israeli Knesset passed a law granting elected officials greater power over judicial appointments, a central part of Prime Minister Netanyahu's judicial reform plan.
- Opposition leaders boycotted the vote and immediately filed petitions with the Supreme Court challenging the law's legality.
- Mass protests erupted across Israel, with demonstrators accusing the government of undermining democracy and prioritizing political consolidation over national unity.
- The government is pursuing the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, actions widely criticized as politically motivated.
- The Histadrut labor union is considering a general strike, while the Supreme Court prepares to review the law, raising concerns of a potential constitutional crisis.