Israeli Parliament Approves Judicial Reform Law, Triggering Legal and Public Backlash

The law shifts judicial appointment powers to elected officials, reigniting protests and opposition petitions during a period of national crisis.

The Knesset passed a judicial reform law that increases elected officials' influence over judicial appointments, with a 67-1 vote boycotted by opposition lawmakers.
The opposition filed a Supreme Court petition challenging the law, arguing it undermines democracy and judicial independence.
The reform has reignited mass protests across Israel, with critics warning it could erode democratic institutions and consolidate power for Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Supporters, including Justice Minister Yariv Levin, claim the law restores balance between the legislative and judicial branches, which they say previously favored the judiciary.
The law's approval comes during the ongoing Gaza war, intensifying criticism of the government's priorities and handling of national crises.