Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing push to reform the judicial system has sparked controversy both in Israel and abroad. Benjamin Netanyahu has revived his controversial reforms, aiming to weaken the Supreme Court’s independence and turn the judiciary into a political tool. Under the cover of the Gaza war, Netanyahu’s government seems determined to dismantle judicial checks and balances that have long safeguarded Israel’s democracy.
Attempts to Erode Judicial Independence
Netanyahu’s main goal is to overhaul how Israel’s Supreme Court judges are appointed. Last week, a new law was passed that alters the Judicial Selection Committee, allowing politicians to influence appointments that align with government interests. This law, effective in the next parliamentary term, gives political leaders more control over court appointments. Critics, including Israel’s Attorney General and legal experts, argue this shift prioritizes political motives over legal norms, undermining judicial impartiality.
Israel’s Supreme Court has long acted as a check on government power. Critics, led by opposition parties and civil society groups, view this new legislation as a dangerous step. They believe it weakens Israel’s checks and balances and opens the door to autocracy, giving Netanyahu and his allies unchecked authority without judicial oversight.
Battle for Israel’s Democracy
The central issue is whether Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul aims to strengthen democracy or protect himself. Netanyahu’s critics argue that the reforms are driven by his ongoing corruption trial, where he faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. They claim these reforms are designed to skew the legal system in his favor, helping him avoid potential convictions and judicial interference.
His rhetoric increasingly mirrors that of populist leaders like US President Donald Trump. He accuses the judiciary of being a “leftist deep state” that undermines the will of the people. This rhetoric forms part of a broader strategy to weaken democratic institutions that might challenge his power.
Public Outcry and Possible Consequences
Netanyahu’s judicial reforms have triggered massive protests across Israel. Lawyers, academics, civil society organizations, and even tech professionals have spoken out against the changes, calling them an assault on Israel’s democracy. Protests in 2023 were historic, and opposition continues to grow. Even the United States, under President Joe Biden, has expressed concern about Israel’s declining democratic norms.
Despite the protests, Netanyahu’s government remains determined. With support from far-right allies like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Netanyahu is likely to press ahead with the reforms. As long as he retains parliamentary support, these changes are likely to pass, regardless of public opposition.
A Turning Point for Israel’s Democracy
Israel is at a critical crossroads. This fight over judicial reform is not just about law but a test for Israel’s democratic integrity. If PM Benjamin Netanyahu succeeds in reshaping the judiciary, it could signal the start of an authoritarian shift. This would give political leaders unchecked power over all branches of government, fundamentally changing Israel’s political system. Israel’s future as a democracy depends on the strength of its institutions and its citizens’ commitment to protecting judicial independence.