Tens of thousands Israelis people gathered in Tel Aviv and other cities to express their opposition. To the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government. And its controversial proposal to revamp the country’s judicial system. The protest, which has been taking place weekly since the beginning of the year, coincides with Israel’s 75th-anniversary celebrations. Which are meant to showcase national unity. However, the occasion has been marred by one of the most severe crises in Israel’s history.
What Sheila Katz said?
The government’s plans to weaken the Supreme Court have outraged many Israelis, who view it as an attack on their country’s system of checks. And balances and a threat to its democracy. Sheila Katz, the head of the National Council of Jewish Women, stated that this is not about so-called judicial reform, but about democracy. She emphasized the need for the courts to remain independent from politics to safeguard the rights of all individuals.
“Candlelight Vigil and Protests Ahead of Israel’s Memorial Day”
In anticipation of Israel’s Memorial Day, family members of slain service members held a candlelight vigil in Tel Aviv to honor the fallen. Many other Israelis held up signs with the number 75 to celebrate Israel’s birthday. While others held up banners with the words “Crime Minister” superimposed on Netanyahu’s face.
The protests have united people from all walks of life in Israeli society, with thousands of elite reserve military officers saying they will refuse to report for duty. High-tech business leaders and the security establishment have also spoken out against the government’s proposal. Trade unions have called for a general strike, and even President Biden, Israel’s most critical ally, has publicly criticized Netanyahu’s plan.
“Netanyahu’s proposal limits judicial power”
Despite public outcry and protests, Netanyahu has been persistent in pushing forward his proposal. Which would give him and his partners in the hardline coalition the final say in appointing judges. It would also limit the court’s ability to review laws and give parliament, controlled by Netanyahu’s allies. The power to overturn Supreme Court decisions.
Yair Lapid, head of the opposition, acknowledged the protesters’ efforts in stopping the disaster from happening. Still, he also emphasized the importance of continuing to push for the proposal’s complete scrapping. Despite the government’s decision to delay the plan, the protesters remain resolute in their demands for its cancellation, as they continue to pour out onto the streets, shouting “Shame!” weeks after Netanyahu backed down.
