Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was released from the hospital after an emergency heart procedure as Israel faces a contentious parliamentary vote expected to disrupt the country’s justice system.
The new plan: Netanyahu’s government which includes ultranationalist and ultra-religious parties, proposed a major judicial overhaul that has been causing unrest and division within the country.
* Proponents of the overhaul argue that changes are needed to curb the powers of unelected judges, while opponents fear it will destroy checks and balances and push Israel towards authoritarian rule.
* The overhaul includes limiting the Supreme Court’s ability to challenge parliamentary decisions and modifying how judges are selected.
Public response: Disapproval extends to different sectors of society with businesses protesting the government’s plan by shutting their stores and residents publicly demonstrating.
* Demonstrators blocked a road leading up to parliament and one protest movement leader was reportedly arrested.
* A consortium of businesses announced they wouldn’t open on Monday as a sign of protest leading to multiple mall chains and gas stations temporarily closing.
International Reaction: The United States, a close ally of Israel, expressed concern over the proposed changes.
* President Biden expressed doubt in the wisdom of going ahead with the contentious legal changes in a statement to the news site Axios, suggesting the focus should be on uniting people and finding consensus.
* The Biden administration has also been critical of Israel’s actions towards deepening its occupation of the West Bank.
What’s next: Despite his recent medical procedure, Netanyahu confirmed he will join his colleagues for the vote that would enshrine the overhaul into law.
* The president, Isaac Herzog, tried to find a compromise between various sides but it remains uncertain whether an agreement could be reached before the final vote.
* Protests continue with rallies both supporting and opposing the plan. Concerns rise as thousands of military reservists refuse to serve under the current government’s agenda.
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