Israel’s parliament has approved a significant component of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul plan, a move that has sparked strong opposition from critics who see it as an attempt to consolidate power within his far-right government.
The proposed judicial reforms triggered mass protests throughout 2023, deeply dividing the nation. Tensions briefly subsided following Hamas’ October 7 attack and the subsequent war in Gaza, but the recent revival of the overhaul has reignited public outrage. Demonstrators have also voiced anger over Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza hostage crisis and his actions against high-ranking officials.
The newly passed law grants the government increased influence over judicial appointments. It reallocates two of the nine seats on the Judicial Selection Committee—previously held by the Israeli Bar Association—to lawyers chosen by both the government and the opposition. These political appointees would hold veto power over Supreme Court and lower court nominations.
Supporters argue that the reform strengthens democratic accountability by increasing the role of elected officials. Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges, has long claimed that he is being targeted by an unelected “deep state” consisting of bureaucrats, law enforcement, and critical media.
Opponents warn that the changes would weaken an independent judiciary, which serves as a crucial check on government power. The law will not take effect until the next Knesset, and opposition leaders have pledged to repeal it if they regain control of the government.
