Thousands of people gathered outside the Knesset (the Israeli Parliament) on Wednesday as Israel faces growing unrest over a controversial judicial bill. As lawmakers prepared for a final vote, demonstrators voiced strong opposition, arguing that the legislation threatens democracy by granting the government excessive control over judicial appointments. Meanwhile, protests erupted across the country, reflecting deep divisions over legal reforms. Additionally, concerns about democratic backsliding and frustration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership continue to escalate, especially as his government faces mounting pressure over security challenges and the ongoing hostage crisis.
Widespread Backlash Against Judicial Reforms
The proposed legislation has drawn severe backlash from opposition leaders and legal experts. The bill seeks to alter the Judicial Selection Committee by removing two Israel Bar Association representatives from the nine-member panel responsible for appointing judges. Instead, the government will appoint one lawyer directly, while the opposition will select another. Critics argue that this shift undermines checks and balances and increases political influence over the judiciary.
Protests erupted across Israel, with major demonstrations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. In Jerusalem, demonstrators marched past the Supreme Court toward the Knesset, blocking Route 1 and lighting flares on the road. Protest organizers claim the government is not only undermining judicial independence but also abandoning hostages still held by Hamas. Many believe the judicial overhaul is part of a broader effort to consolidate power, weakening democratic institutions and diminishing the role of an independent judiciary.
Mounting Pressure on Netanyahu’s Leadership
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is already facing mounting pressure for resuming military action in Gaza. Protesters accuse him of neglecting the hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7 attack. They demand immediate government action to secure their release, arguing that his administration is prioritizing judicial changes over urgent national security matters.
Opposition lawmakers joined the demonstrators in solidarity. Labour MKs Gilad Kariv and Naama Lazimi, along with Democrats MK Efrat Reitan, set up offices outside the Knesset to show support. Gilad Kariv wrote on X, “The people’s house no longer represents the people. Most Israelis reject this government’s actions. They want the hostages back, an inquiry into October 7, and new elections.”
Political analysts warn that the protests could escalate if the government does not reconsider the bill. The unrest highlights growing frustration with Netanyahu’s leadership, with critics accusing his government of using judicial changes as a means to consolidate control. Many fear that continued crackdowns on judicial independence will have long-term consequences for Israel’s democracy and international standing.
As tensions rise, opposition leaders are calling for dialogue and compromise. However, with Netanyahu’s government standing firm, the standoff between protesters and the administration appears far from over.
