Israeli protestors took to the streets on Tuesday, blocking major highways, in opposition to a bill that would limit the Supreme Court’s authority. The bill, which has received initial approval from parliament, is strongly supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition.
Videos circulating online showed crowds of flag-waving protestors disrupting traffic in key intersections and highways across central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Some protestors laid on the roads, while others ignited flares. The police made 24 arrests and used a water cannon to disperse the protestors. Further demonstrations are planned nationwide, including at Ben Gurion airport.
The government’s push to change the justice system has sparked widespread protests, raised concerns among Western allies about the state of democracy in Israel, and had negative impacts on the economy. The bill, which passed the first of three required votes, aims to limit the Supreme Court’s ability to invalidate government decisions deemed unreasonable.
Critics argue that this judicial oversight is crucial to preventing corruption and abuse of power. On the other hand, proponents claim that the change will enhance effective governance by reducing court intervention, arguing that judges have alternative legal avenues for oversight.
The issue has deeply divided Israeli society, with the campaign drawing attention even amid Prime Minister Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial. Previous compromise talks between the government and opposition had failed, and the United States has encouraged broad agreements on justice reforms to maintain the independence of Israel’s courts.
Netanyahu has shown no indication of pausing the legislation again and has downplayed the economic consequences of the campaign, despite investor concerns and the shekel’s depreciation of almost 8% since January.