Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Undergoes Surgery as Controversial Judicial Overhaul Bill Sparks Protests
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent surgery to implant a pacemaker on Sunday ahead of a debate in parliament on a controversial judicial overhaul bill that has brought tens of thousands of protesters to the streets. The surgery was performed at Sheba Medical Center, and Netanyahu’s condition was reported to be good after the procedure.
The proposed judicial revamp by Netanyahu’s hard-right government has divided the nation and sparked one of the largest protest movements in Israel’s history since it was announced in January. Critics view the proposed revamp as a threat to Israel’s democracy.
Netanyahu’s recent health scare comes as lawmakers prepare to debate the judicial overhaul bill in parliament, with a vote scheduled for Monday. The final vote will focus on the “reasonability” clause, which allows judges to strike down government decisions. Netanyahu’s government, which includes extreme-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish allies, aims to limit the Supreme Court’s powers granted under this clause, arguing that the changes are necessary to achieve a better balance of power.
Critics accuse Netanyahu, who is currently on trial for corruption charges he denies, of using the reforms to suppress potential judgments against him. However, he denies these accusations. The “reasonability” clause was most recently cited by Israel’s top court to force Netanyahu to remove an ultra-Orthodox cabinet member due to a previous tax evasion conviction.
If approved in the final vote, it would be the first major component of the proposed legal overhaul to become law. Other proposed reforms include giving the government a greater say in the appointment of judges.
The protests against the judicial overhaul bill have garnered support from various political and social groups, including both the left and the right, secular and religious organizations, peace activists, military reservists, and workers in the tech sector. Tens of thousands of people rallied in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as well as other parts of the country, expressing their concerns about the potential erosion of democracy.
Protesters in Tel Aviv chanted pro-democracy slogans and beat drums at their 29th consecutive weekly rally. Many wore shirts with “Democracy” printed on them. The government’s lack of response to their concerns has led protesters to believe that a new era, a bad era, is beginning. They fear that the proposed reforms will have catastrophic consequences.
In Jerusalem, thousands of protesters gathered near parliament, the Supreme Court, and the prime minister’s residence after a multi-day march from Tel Aviv. Some protesters set up make-shift tents near the Knesset to camp out during the parliamentary debate on the “reasonability clause.” Protesters voiced their opposition to what they perceive as an extreme religious government that is undermining democracy and basic civil rights.
The protests have gained support from over 1,100 air force reservists, including fighter pilots, who have threatened to suspend their volunteer service if the reforms become law. The proposed judicial revamp has also faced international criticism, including from US President Joe Biden.
Netanyahu has postponed planned trips to Turkey and Cyprus following his hospitalization and pacemaker implantation. His office has not provided further details on the report.
As the debate on the judicial overhaul bill continues, the nation remains divided. Supporters argue that the changes are necessary for a better balance of power, while opponents view them as a threat to democracy. The final vote on Monday will determine whether the proposed reforms become law, potentially shaping the future of Israel’s judicial system.