Protests in Israel Against Netanyahu's Plans

Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered for the sixteenth consecutive week, protesting against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans to tighten control over the Supreme Court, just before the celebrations marking 75 years since the establishment of Israel. The government accuses judges involved in political life of increasingly intervening in parliamentary work, stating that "the amendments are necessary to restore the balance between the judiciary and elected politicians." Critics argue that "the amendments will eliminate the vital checks and balances that underpin a democratic state and grant the government absolute power."