Israel's High Court Invalidates Netanyahu's Contentious Judiciary Reform Proposal

Israel's Supreme Court, in an 8-7 decision, struck down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial judicial overhaul plan, escalating tensions during the ongoing war with Hamas. The decision deemed a victory for democracy by some, was criticized by Netanyahu's allies, further fueling the political divide.

Image Source -www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com

In a landmark decision on Monday, Israel's Supreme Court, amid the ongoing war with Hamas, invalidated a crucial part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's contentious judicial overhaul plan. The 8-7 vote overturned a law from July aimed at restricting judges from striking down government decisions they deemed "unreasonable."

The court justified its decision by citing the plan's potential to cause "severe and unprecedented harm to the core character of the State of Israel as a democratic country." The ruling comes as Israel transitions into the next phase of the conflict in Gaza, threatening to deepen existing divisions.

Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a key ally of Netanyahu and the architect of the overhaul, criticized the decision, emphasizing the need for unity during wartime. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich dismissed it as "extreme and divisive," while Netanyahu's Likud party expressed disappointment, claiming it contradicted "the will of the people for unity."

Opposition chair Yair Lapid praised the court's decision, stating that it marked the end of a tumultuous year of internal disputes. Netanyahu's plan, aimed at limiting judges' authority, faced opposition, with critics fearing it would lead to corruption and improper appointments. Supporters argued for strengthened democracy by empowering elected officials.

The court's 12-3 ruling on their authority to overturn "Basic Laws" dealt another blow to Netanyahu and his allies, who sought legislative supremacy. The plan proposed a year ago, included curbing judges' powers, altering the appointment process, and limiting the Supreme Court's oversight of parliamentary decisions.

Also Read: The On-Set Filming Of 'Vettaiyan' Featuring Rajinikanth And Fahadh Faasil Goes Viral

With Netanyahu on trial for corruption, the court's decision could reignite tensions, potentially leading to a constitutional showdown. Past protests against the overhaul involved hundreds of thousands, including military reservists, raising concerns about national unity and military readiness.

In Israel's complex political landscape, where the prime minister wields significant control, the Supreme Court's role as a critical oversight entity remains pivotal, even as Netanyahu's allies advocate for increased settlement construction, annexation, military draft exemptions, and limitations on LGBTQ+ and Palestinian rights.