Netanyahu 'pauses' controversial judicial reforms after mass demonstrations
Following international condemnation and mass protests across the country, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday ‘paused’ his controversial plans to reform the judiciary, saying he is “taking time for further dialogue.”
The leader blamed an “extremist minority” for the widespread demonstrations. On Monday, Netanyahu’s national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, said the government’s plan was put on hold until the parliament’s summer session, which starts in late April.
In opposition to the plan, scores of people have repeatedly taken to the streets, including spontaneous mass protests that erupted across Israel on Sunday after Netanyahu dismissed Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for questioning the overhaul.
In a brief statement, Netanyahu’s office announced the dismissal, with the prime minister later tweeting “We must all stand strong against refusal.” Gallant had been the first senior member of the ruling Likud party to speak out against the plan.
Thousands of people have expressed concerns over the controversial changes giving the governing coalition control over judicial appointments as well as weakening Israel’s Supreme Court by allowing parliament to overturn its decisions and limiting judicial review of laws.
While the government says the changes will help streamline governance in the face of an interventionist judiciary, opponents have warned against the overhaul offering Netanyahu’s ruling coalition control over what is now an independent judiciary.
Aimed at halting the overhaul, a number of protesters demonstrated outside the parliament earlier on Monday and scores of workers also launched a nationwide strike. The chaos brought much of the country to a standstill and threatened to paralyse the economy.
There’s a special rhythm to late May in the United States. Flags line quiet cemeteries. You can smell backyard grills.… Read More
There’s something surreal about watching a drag car launch with brutal force and hearing almost nothing. That’s exactly what the… Read More
What began as one of Washington’s most polished evenings quickly turned into a moment of fear and confusion. On April… Read More
It’s no longer just talk. Elon Musk has started to roll out X Money, the long-awaited payments and banking feature… Read More
A powerful jolt startled residents across northern Japan early this morning, shaking homes and briefly raising fears of something far… Read More
At first glance, the annual gathering in Le Bourget feels like any other large cultural event in France. There are… Read More
This website uses cookies.
Read More