HomeWorldThe Israeli president calls for an immediate halt to judicial reform

The Israeli president calls for an immediate halt to judicial reform

Israel’s president on Monday asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “act with responsibility and courage” and “immediately” end the legislative process of the controversial judicial reform that divides the country.

“For the sake of the unity of the people of Israel, for the sake of necessary accountability, I urge you to immediately end the legislative process,” Isaac Herzog said in a statement when the country registers the largest demonstrations ever and is on the verge of a general strike.

“The whole nation is very concerned. Our security, economy, society – they are all under threat,” Herzog warned. “Wake up now!”

Last night, Netanyahu fired the defense minister after Yoav Gallant publicly called for an end to judicial reform in the government’s first critical voice.

The Prime Minister’s decision brought more than 600,000 people to the streets in massive and impromptu protests in several Israeli cities.

Universities across the country have been closed “until further notice” in protest and unions are expected to call for a general strike.

Judicial reforms sparked one of Israel’s most serious internal crises, uniting corporate leaders, judicial officials and even the country’s military in widespread opposition.

An apparent calm has returned to the country’s streets after a night of protests that saw thousands of protesters set fire to Tel Aviv’s highway, blocking passage, as well as others across the country.

The centerpiece of the review is a law that will give the ruling coalition the final say on all judicial appointments. Other laws may give parliament the power to override Supreme Court decisions and limit judicial review of laws.

Netanyahu and allies said the plan would restore balance between the judiciary and executive and curb what they see as an interventionist court with liberal sympathies.

But critics warned that the laws would abolish Israel’s system of checks and balances and concentrate power in the hands of the ruling coalition, adding that Netanyahu, who will be tried on corruption charges, had a conflict of interest.

Author: DN/Lusa

Source: DN

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