Israeli President Isaac Herzog revealed alternative changes to the judiciary today, Wednesday, in response to proposed reforms put forward by the ruling far-right coalition that have sparked massive protests over the past few weeks.
Herzog warned that Israel has reached a turning point and emphasized his participation in mediation efforts, speaking with "thousands" over the course of weeks. He stated, "Civil war is a red line. I will not allow this to happen at any cost or by any means." He added that Israel is "in the midst of a real crisis" but also "facing a tremendous opportunity" and "at a crossroads."
However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the new proposal, writing on Twitter that "key parts of the plan presented preserve the status quo and do not bring the necessary balance to Israeli authorities." He added, "This is the unfortunate truth." Justice Minister Yariv Levin had viewed the measures proposed by the coalition as changing the way judges are appointed by granting the Knesset (parliament) more oversight and the government more power over the committee that selects them.
Netanyahu's far-right government’s campaign for comprehensive changes to the Israeli courts has triggered internal anger and concern among the country's Western allies. If the initial proposal is approved, it would mean greater government influence in the selection of judges and a limitation on the Supreme Court's authority to annul laws.
One of the main points of contention in the proposed reform is altering how judges are selected. The president's plan calls for the selection committee to include three ministers, the Chief Justice, two judges, and civil servants who must be approved by the Chief Justice and the Justice Minister.
