Israeli Knesset to Decide on Restrictions for Judiciary

The Israeli Knesset is set to hold its first voting session on Monday, July 10, regarding a bill that will limit some powers of the Supreme Court. Efforts to change the judicial system by the coalition government of Benjamin Netanyahu, composed of nationalist and religious parties, have sparked unprecedented protests, raised concerns about the health of democracy in Israel among its Western allies, and impacted the country's economy. According to Reuters, the Israeli coalition government plans to resume legal actions regarding the 'Judicial Reforms' bill starting Tuesday, which limits the Supreme Court's power to overturn decisions made by the government, ministers, and elected officials. Critics believe that this bill will lead to corruption and abuse of power, while supporters claim it will facilitate effective governance by curbing judicial interference. Disputes over the revision of the judicial system have significantly affected Israeli society. Additionally, Israel witnessed the largest anti-government protests against Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu had postponed the review of the 'Judicial Reforms' due to negotiations with his opponents, which were facilitated by the President of Israel. However, these talks were fruitless last month, and the coalition government returned to the plan. Nationwide protests in Israel began in January of this year when Netanyahu's government announced a bill to revise the judiciary system, which would revoke some powers of the Israeli Supreme Court and grant politicians more influence in selecting judges. Thousands of people marched in Israel against Netanyahu's government, and once again, thousands took to the streets against Netanyahu. The return of anti-Netanyahu protesters to the streets of Tel Aviv, widespread demonstrations by Israelis against the government's 'Judicial Reforms', and thousands of Israelis protesting against Netanyahu ahead of Independence Day celebrations were notable events.