Thu Mar 27 19:20:28 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Parliament Passes Controversial Judicial Overhaul, Sparking Fresh Protests

**Jerusalem** – Israel’s parliament approved a major judicial reform Thursday, granting politicians greater control over judge appointments and igniting fresh protests from opponents who decry it as a blow to democracy. The law, passed with 67 votes in the 120-seat Knesset, alters the composition of the judicial selection committee, giving the government a stronger voice.

The move comes days after the government began procedures to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, both critics of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The opposition immediately filed a petition with the Supreme Court challenging the new law, calling it a “catastrophe” and a “nail in the coffin of Israeli democracy.”

Justice Minister Yariv Levin, the bill’s sponsor, argued the reform restores balance between the legislative and judicial branches, claiming the Supreme Court had overstepped its authority. The current committee includes judges, lawmakers, and bar association representatives. The new law replaces this with a committee where the government holds a clear majority.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid filed an appeal with the Supreme Court, denouncing the government’s focus on the legislation amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Eliad Shraga of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel echoed concerns, calling it an attempt to politicize the judiciary.

The judicial reform package, unveiled earlier this year, sparked massive protests before being overshadowed by the recent Gaza conflict. Critics warn the reforms could pave the way for authoritarian rule and allow Netanyahu to influence his own corruption trial – a claim he denies. The ongoing dispute continues to deeply divide Israeli society.

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