Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently stated that he will be focusing on a specific part of the judicial overhaul initially planned by his government. Rather than pursuing the entire agenda, Netanyahu aims to shift the focus towards altering the composition of the judge selection committee, leaving aside other proposed steps.
During an interview with Bloomberg Television in Jerusalem on Sunday, Netanyahu elaborated on his decision, highlighting the importance of finding a balanced approach. He emphasized the need to prevent extreme scenarios, such as having "the most activist judicial court on the planet" or a legislature with the ability to overturn any decision made by the court. According to Netanyahu, restoration of balance is the ultimate goal.
In the midst of the nation's largest anti-government protest movement, Netanyahu sought to project an image of a leader rising above the political fray. Addressing concerns among unsettled markets, he confidently stated that Israel is currently undervalued, encouraging investment in the country.
Netanyahu's shift away from the remaining aspects of the judicial package, though not explicitly expressed before, is seen by many as a significant concession. This change represents a victory for those who have spent months demonstrating against the proposed reforms.
The original package included measures such as granting parliament the power to overrule the Supreme Court and allowing government ministers to appoint their own legal advisers. However, giving the government more control over the selection of judges has proven to be a step too far for a considerable number of Israelis, particularly after another judicial tool was removed in July, limiting the courts' oversight powers.
Netanyahu, at the age of 73, regained power after last year's elections through a coalition with far-right, ultra-Orthodox, and nationalist parties. The subsequent plans to curb the powers of the courts sparked widespread protests, as many feared a deterioration of the country's democracy. Although the effort was briefly suspended in March, negotiations to find a compromise between Netanyahu's cabinet and the opposition eventually reached an impasse.
With this strategic adjustment in his government's approach, the prime minister aims to address public outcry and create a more engaging and inclusive dialogue surrounding the judiciary system and its reforms.