Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged on Monday to take strict measures against military service noncompliance by reservists protesting the judicial reform plan, stating that such actions undermine democracy and embolden the country’s enemies. Netanyahu told the cabinet, "The government will not accept rebellion. The government will take action regarding this and will take all necessary steps to ensure our security and future," without elaborating on potential measures.
With the escalation of Israeli-Palestinian violence and a series of confrontations recently along the Lebanese border, Netanyahu claimed the actions of reservists "weaken our ability to deter our enemies who could easily turn to attacking us." He added, "We cannot have a group within the military threatening the elected government, 'If you do not do what we say, security will be disrupted.' No democratic state can accept this dictate."
Critics of the judicial reform plan argue that Netanyahu is the one threatening democracy by dismantling checks and balances. In response to questions about numbers, an Israeli army spokesperson stated that in connection with the protests, "absences among reservists when called up for service are very limited (and are being handled) by commanders appropriately." Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges he denies, supports the amendments as restoring balance among government institutions.
Biden
Axios reported on Monday that "U.S. President Joe Biden will conduct a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the increase in protests against the judicial reforms in Israel."
