Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has called for a suspension of the proposed judicial reforms, joining a prominent Knesset member from the Likud party, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in this contentious appeal. This has exacerbated the divisions within the Prime Minister's party and his government amid unprecedented mass protests lasting for months, organized by Israelis who believe the reform package jeopardizes judicial independence. Meanwhile, Netanyahu contends that these reforms will create a balance between the branches of government.
It is notable that Minister Gallant has publicly diverged from the party's overall position, urging Netanyahu to postpone the legislative approval for a month, stating: "The protests that have erupted across Israel against the reforms, joined by an increasing number of reservists, are impacting the operations of the regular forces and threaten national security." Gallant added in his statements: "I will not make this easy," referring to the possibility of refraining from voting in favor of the legislation if it is presented this week.
Gallant's statement received support from Likud member David Bitan, who criticized the government's plans, suggesting that he believes up to a third of his colleagues in the party would prefer to halt the legislative process. However, he added that he would personally remain committed to supporting Netanyahu's position. Bitan told Israeli military radio, "I will vote in favor of it as long as that is the party's decision."
