Israel passes law protecting Netanyahu as protests continue
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition on Thursday passed the first of several laws that make up its contentious judicial overhaul. Protesters opposing the changes staged another day of demonstrations to raise alarm over what they see as Israel’s descent toward autocracy.
Thousands protested throughout the country, blocking traffic on main highways and scuffling with police in unrest that shows no sign of abating as the overhaul moves ahead.
Netanyahu’s coalition approved legislation that would protect the Israeli leader from being deemed unfit to rule because of his corruption trial and claims of a conflict of interest surrounding his involvement in the legal changes. Critics say the law is tailor-made for Netanyahu, encourages corruption and deepens a gaping chasm between Israelis over the judicial overhaul.
Netanyahu’s office said he would be delivering “an important declaration” Thursday evening after Israeli media reported that his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, would publicly call for a halt to the legislative drive. Sara Netanyahu, the premier’s minister’s wife and informal advisor, issued a rare statement calling for broad compromise.
But after a brief meeting with Netanyahu, Gallant called off his announcement and Netanyahu delivered a speech making vague promises to calm the nation and respect all opinions as his government moves ahead with his plan. He offered no details on how he plans to do so.
“The best way to achieve a balanced reform and prevent a rift in the nation is through deliberation and reaching the broadest consensus,” he said. “I am working to reach a solution, I am attentive to the concerns of the other side.”