Israel’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin slammed the escalating tensions in Israel’s political and judicial landscape, renewing calls for a contentious judicial overhaul amidst accusations of High Court overreach and political stalemates.
Levin had previously paused his judicial reform initiatives due to the war with Hamas. However, following a High Court ruling demanding he convene the Judicial Selection Committee by January 16, Levin accused the court of abusing its authority. His Facebook post branded the justices as “dictators” and raised concerns about the court’s influence over the Knesset and government powers.
Levin expressed frustration, accusing the court of exploiting the war to advance its agenda, calling it an “unacceptable reality.” He argued that this necessitated action to restore balance between the judiciary and other branches of government. Levin’s criticism extended to former State Attorney Moshe Lador, who had advocated for reservists to refuse service in protest of perceived government overreach.
For two years, judge appointments have been stalled due to the political standoff over judicial reforms. The High Court has lost three justices due to retirement without replacements being appointed. Traditionally, seniority dictates leadership, making Justice Yitzhak Amit the Acting Court President, but Levin favors conservative Justice Yosef Elron for the role.
Proposed Judicial Overhaul Details:
Levin’s overhaul aims to:
Modify how judges are appointed and removed.
Allow the Knesset to override certain High Court decisions.
Change how legal advisors are chosen for government ministries.
Limit judges’ use of the “reasonableness” standard.
While supporters argue these reforms reduce judicial overreach, critics fear they undermine democracy.
Protests and counter-protests erupted over the overhaul, which was paused after Hamas’s October 7 attack led to a unity government. The High Court ruling reignites this debate, with Levin signaling readiness to push the reforms forward.
The unfolding developments suggest a looming constitutional crisis, as political factions clash over the judiciary’s role and authority within Israel’s democracy.
