Israeli government has submitted a bill to Knesset, which is aimed at restoring Shas party leader Aryeh Deri to his ministerial positions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week was forced to fire Deri after the High Court of Justice ruled that the recently convicted lawmaker could not serve as a cabinet minister.

Israel moves to restore Aryeh Deri as minister

Anti-government protests in Israel against the controversial legal reforms continued for the fifth week on Saturday (February 4) with thousands of demonstrators, braving the rain, swarming Tel Aviv's Kaplan Street, with signs criticising the establishment.

Anti-government protests in Israel against the controversial legal reforms continued for the fifth week on Saturday (February 4) with thousands of demonstrators, braving the rain, swarming Tel Aviv's Kaplan Street, with signs criticising the establishment. One of the signs labelled the government as a "threat to world peace," while another said "Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu," news agency AFP reported early Sunday. On Saturday, protests were held in 20 cities across Israel and tens of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv alone, as per local media. However, the official turnout figures are not out yet. ALSO READ | At least 13 Palestinians injured in Israeli military raids at Jericho camp Speaking to AFP, Dania Shwartz, 44, from Ramat Gan said that protesters were "reclaiming" the Israeli flag. "If you look around there are a lot of Israeli flags and for many years the Israeli flag was a symbol of the right (wing)," Shwartz said. "We are patriots and we want this country to keep existing. The Israeli flag belongs to all of us, this is not a question of being right or left," she added. The 44-year-old, a member of the LGBTQ community, expressed concerns that the new government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would try to pass laws that would affect her children. "For example, the Noam party wants to delegitimise families like ours and it's very scary," Shwartz further told the news agency, referring to one of the government's coalition partners which is known for its anti-gay stance. The judicial reforms by the current government would enable the parliament to overrule any Supreme Court decision with a simple majority of 61 lawmakers in the 120-seat body. These proposed reforms would also change the system through which judges are appointed, giving politicians more control. Protesters, meanwhile, pointed out that the reforms would threaten democratic checks and balances on ministers by the courts. They also accused Netanyahu of trying to escape a legal case against him, the news agency Reuters reported. Ex-PM Yair Lapid joins protests Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid took part in the demonstrations in Hafia where he said that protesters "came to save their country, and we came to protest with them. We will save our country because we are unwilling to live in an undemocratic country." Prime Minister Netanyahu has condemned the protests by saying they are a refusal by opposition leaders to accept the results of the election held in November last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu': Anti-govt protests continue for fifth week

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank. In India, Adani Enterprises called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. And the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-raids-president-joe-bidens-home-in-delaware-558003">Classified documents probe: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/01/329580-biden-1.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a raid on President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on Wednesday as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank, American media reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adani-calls-off-25-billion-share-sale-even-as-ackman-alleges-fpo-might-be-rigged-558079">Adani calls off $2.5 billion share sale even as Ackman alleges FPO might be 'rigged'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/02/329655-untitled-design-2023-02-02t083000220.png?imwidth=1920" />

Adani Enterprises, Gautam Adani's flagship company, called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. Meanwhile, American billionaire Bill Ackman has said he won't be surprised if the company's $2.25bn follow-on public offering "was rigged."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-wont-carry-king-charless-image-on-new-5-note-558084">Australia won't carry King Charles's image on new $5 note</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/02/329665-capture.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Australia has announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture, the country's central bank said on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-looking-into-sending-military-aid-to-ukraine-558051">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine</a>

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In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.

WATCH| UK: Teachers, Civil servants join mass strike, protest over new law

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank. In India, Adani Enterprises called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. And the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture. Click on headlines to read more: Classified documents probe: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a raid on President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on Wednesday as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank, American media reported. Adani calls off $2.5 billion share sale even as Ackman alleges FPO might be 'rigged' Adani Enterprises, Gautam Adani's flagship company, called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. Meanwhile, American billionaire Bill Ackman has said he won't be surprised if the company's $2.25bn follow-on public offering "was rigged." Australia won't carry King Charles's image on new $5 note Australia has announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture, the country's central bank said on Thursday. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement. WATCH| UK: Teachers, Civil servants join mass strike, protest over new law ×

Morning brief: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers, & more

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed a 'swift action' to the killings in Israel's Synagogue attack. Following a brief car-chase, the 21-year-old assailant was later shot dead by the police.

Jerusalem shooting: 21-YO shooter shot dead by police; Israel PM Netanyahu vows 'swift action'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (January 24) made a surprise visit to Jordan to hold talks with King Abdullah amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (January 24) made a surprise visit to Jordan to hold talks with King Abdullah amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem. According to the royal palace, Netanyahu and King Abdullah discussed the situation in the compound and the importance of respecting the historical and legal status quo. Netanyahu's office, meanwhile, said that the Israeli Prime Minister and the Jordanian King discussed regional issues, especially strategic, security and economic cooperation between the two countries, a report by the news agency AFP said. The visit to Amman was Netanyahu's first official trip abroad since taking office. He had previously met the monarch in 2018. The latest meeting between the two leaders comes following years of strained relations. Why does Netanyahu's visit to Jordan hold significance? Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Jordan came amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. On January 3, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's extreme right-wing national security minister, visited the holy site, sparking global condemnation. The compound is a highly sensitive site sacred to both Islam and Judaism. Palestinians labelled Itamar Ben-Gvir's January 3 visit as a provocation. The meeting on Tuesday also seemed an avenue for Netanyahu and Jordanian King Abdullah to mend their relations. What does the status quo say? Under the status quo agreement, the Al-Aqsa mosque is administered by Jordan in coordination with the Palestinians but access to the site is controlled by Israel's security forces. As per rules, Muslims are allowed to enter the esplanade at all times of the day and night. However, non-Muslims can only do so at certain times and without praying. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? In the past few years, the Israeli Police have repeatedly closed access to the compound during times of tension and the number of Jews paying a visit (to the holy site) has increased. Some ultra-nationalist Jews have been caught praying at the esplanade, leading to tensions with Muslim worshippers. They also want to build a Third Temple at the site. WION had earlier reported that Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has long sought to change the status quo of the holy site and is also allegedly an advocate for Jewish prayer to take place. Ahead of his January 3 tour, Jordan signalled that a visit by the Israeli minister or moves which violated the status quo would have far-reaching consequences, according to a report by the Times of Israel on Tuesday. Netanyahu-King Abdullah meeting after years of tense relations During Netanyahu's last stint as Israel's Prime Minister, ties between Jerusalem and Amman had deteriorated. Jordanian King Abdullah had repeatedly described ties with Israel as a "cold peace", and said in 2019 that relations between the two countries were at an all-time low. The Times of Israel report on Tuesday said that Jordan was nervous over changes to the Temple Mount during Netanyahu’s previous tenure. In 2019, King Abdullah said that he was under pressure to alter his country's role on Temple Mount, but the monarch said he would not change in position, the report added. In January this year, the foreign ministry in Amman summoned Israel's ambassador twice, first to protest against Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound and second after Israeli police prevented the Jordanian ambassador from entering the holy site. Jordan's concerns after Netanyahu's return to power Netanyahu becoming Israel's prime minister again has deepened Jordan's concerns that ultra-right policies, which include an accelerated Jewish settlement building in Palestinian territories in the West Bank, will cause a new wave of violence, news agency Reuters reported on Tuesday. Jordan also fears provocative moves by ultra-right Jewish groups praying at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound could inflame religious passions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why is Israeli PM Netanyahu's visit to Jordan important?

Israel Attack: PM Netanyahu vows for 'swift action'

Amid the diplomatic tensions over the Al-Aqsa mosque controversy, Jordan's King Abdullah held a meeting with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Jordan's Royal Court, Abdullah told Netanyahu that Israel should respect the historic legal status-quo in the holy Al-Aqsa mosque and not violate it.

Jordan's King Abdullah, Israel's Netanyahu discuss Al-Aqsa mosque tensions

Jordan's King Abdullah meets Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discuss Al-Aqsa tensions

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large. In Syria's northern city of Aleppo, a building collapsed on Sunday killing 16 people, including children. According to the state media, search and rescue efforts were ongoing. And in a major-shake up Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri from his cabinet after the Supreme Court gave a ruling against the appointment recently. The court decided that Deri could not serve as a cabinet minister because of a conviction last year over tax offences.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-in-california-leaves-multiple-fatalities-many-injured-554870">US: 10 killed, 10 injured in mass shooting at Lunar New Year event near Los Angeles, suspect at large</a>

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At least 10 people were killed and at least 10 others injured&nbsp;in a mass shooting&nbsp;at a ballroom dance club amid Lunar New Year celebrations attended by thousands of people in&nbsp;Monterey Park city&nbsp;in California, late Saturday, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/syria-at-least-13-killed-including-children-after-building-collapses-in-aleppo-554904">Syria: At least 16 killed, including children, as building collapses in Aleppo</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327307-syria.png?imwidth=1920" />

At least 16 people, including children, lost their lives after a building collapsed in Syria's northern city of Aleppo early on Sunday (January 22), the state news agency SANA quoting an interior ministry statement.&nbsp;The report mentioned that the five-story building, housing about 30 people, collapsed overnight in the Sheikh Maksoud neighbourhood.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-removes-top-minister-after-supreme-court-ruling-554900">Israeli PM Netanyahu removes minister Aryeh Deri from cabinet following Supreme Court ruling</a>

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In a major shake-up, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a&nbsp;top minister Aryeh Deri who is also the leader of coalition partner from his nascent cabinet after the Supreme Court gave the ruling against the appointment recently.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attitude-unacceptable-poland-hits-out-at-germanys-decision-not-to-supply-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-554882">'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine</a>

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&nbsp;

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-and-germany-must-become-pioneers-to-relaunch-europe-says-macron-554930">France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327316-emmanuel-macron-and-olaf-scholz.png?imwidth=1920" />

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe.&nbsp;German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-years-after-capitol-riot-us-lawmakers-seek-to-bar-insurrectionists-from-holding-office-report-554932">Two years after Capitol riot, US lawmakers seek to bar insurrectionists from holding office: Report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/08/177561-us-capitol-hill-riots.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the Capitol Hill riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-media-faces-massive-layoffs-amid-fears-of-economic-depression-554886">US media faces massive layoffs amid fears of economic depression</a> 
&nbsp;

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US media outlets, from the Washington Post to CNN, have been facing tough days, as massive layoffs were announced by various outlets amid increasing fears of economic depression.&nbsp;Vox Media, owner of websites like The Verge and Vox along with the famous New York Magazine as well as its online platform,&nbsp;on Friday announced that they will be laying off seven per cent of its staff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dear-mr-kirby-wagner-boss-writes-to-white-house-over-fresh-us-sanctions-554903">'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions</a>

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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared&nbsp;it a transnational criminal organisation.&nbsp;

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327312-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Following India’s dominant eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the second ODI in Raipur, player-of-the-match Mohammed Shami was seen have a discussion with India’s newest pace sensation Umran Malik on Bcci.tv. During the match, it was Shami who provided India with early breakthroughs and returned with figures of 3-18 in six overs. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-akshay-kumar-begins-filming-for-bade-miyan-chote-miyan-with-tiger-shroff-554921">Akshay Kumar begins filming for 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' with Tiger Shroff</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/22/327318-untitled-design-2023-01-22t194717196.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff have finally started filming&nbsp;for their upcoming action entertainer 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan', backed by Pooja Entertainment. The film is being helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar and&nbsp;features Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist.

&nbsp;

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large.

At least 10 people were killed and 10 others were wounded in a mass shooting in a predominantly Asian city in southern California, police said on Sunday (January 22), with the suspect still at large. In Syria's northern city of Aleppo, a building collapsed on Sunday killing 16 people, including children. According to the state media, search and rescue efforts were ongoing. And in a major-shake up Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri from his cabinet after the Supreme Court gave a ruling against the appointment recently. The court decided that Deri could not serve as a cabinet minister because of a conviction last year over tax offences. Click on the headlines to read more US: 10 killed, 10 injured in mass shooting at Lunar New Year event near Los Angeles, suspect at large At least 10 people were killed and at least 10 others injured in a mass shooting at a ballroom dance club amid Lunar New Year celebrations attended by thousands of people in Monterey Park city in California, late Saturday, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said. Syria: At least 16 killed, including children, as building collapses in Aleppo At least 16 people, including children, lost their lives after a building collapsed in Syria's northern city of Aleppo early on Sunday (January 22), the state news agency SANA quoting an interior ministry statement. The report mentioned that the five-story building, housing about 30 people, collapsed overnight in the Sheikh Maksoud neighbourhood. Israeli PM Netanyahu removes minister Aryeh Deri from cabinet following Supreme Court ruling In a major shake-up, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday removed a top minister Aryeh Deri who is also the leader of coalition partner from his nascent cabinet after the Supreme Court gave the ruling against the appointment recently. 'Attitude unacceptable': Poland hits out at Germany's decision not to supply Leopard tanks to Ukraine Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday (January 22) hit out at Germany's decision not to supply the Leopard 2 tanks to war-hit Ukraine by saying that Berlin's attitude is unacceptable. "Germany's attitude is unacceptable. It has been almost a year since the war began, innocent people are dying every day," Morawiecki told the PAP agency. France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (January 22) said that France and Germany should be "pioneers" in the process of developing Europe. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met French counterpart in Paris on Sunday to mark 60 years of postwar cooperation between both nations—the signing of Elysee Treaty. Two years after Capitol riot, US lawmakers seek to bar insurrectionists from holding office: Report Nearly, 1,000 people had been charged in the Capitol Hill riot with federal crimes, with about half of them pleading guilty to riot-related charges and more than three dozen convicted at trial. US media faces massive layoffs amid fears of economic depression US media outlets, from the Washington Post to CNN, have been facing tough days, as massive layoffs were announced by various outlets amid increasing fears of economic depression. Vox Media, owner of websites like The Verge and Vox along with the famous New York Magazine as well as its online platform, on Friday announced that they will be laying off seven per cent of its staff. 'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin wrote a short letter to the White House on Saturday (January 21) asking what crime his group is accused of after the United States imposed new sanctions on the group and declared it a transnational criminal organisation. Mohammed Shami advices young Umran Malik, says 'you do this..' and then you will rule the world Following India’s dominant eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the second ODI in Raipur, player-of-the-match Mohammed Shami was seen have a discussion with India’s newest pace sensation Umran Malik on Bcci.tv. During the match, it was Shami who provided India with early breakthroughs and returned with figures of 3-18 in six overs. Akshay Kumar begins filming for 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' with Tiger Shroff Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff have finally started filming for their upcoming action entertainer 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan', backed by Pooja Entertainment. The film is being helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar and features Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist.

Top 10 world news: 10 dead in Lunar New Year shooting near Los Angeles, suspect at large, and more

Israel has seen yet another protest against its new judicial reforms. This comes just a week after thousands held demonstrations against the reforms in key cities of Israel.

Israel: Protests against judicial reforms take place, Benjamin Netanyahu slams protests

Protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bid to reform the judicial system rock Israel. Ghadi Francis brings you all the updates on this week's The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Israeli PM faces backlash over new legal reforms

The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its&nbsp;latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it. The judges consider Deri's appointment as “unreasonable in the extreme” in light of the numerous corruption charges against him, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

Deri, who took the oath alongside the rest of the government on December 29, must therefore be fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in accordance with the court's verdict.

Together with Uzi Vogelman, Anat Baron, Daphne Barak-Erez, Yael Willner, and others, Court President Esther Hayut voted&nbsp;to revoke Deri's appointment. 
 
The ruling deepens a rift over the power of courts in Israel and could turn out to be the first coalition crisis for&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Also watch |&nbsp;US supplies reportedly kept in Israel to help Ukraine

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The high court ruled that Deri, the influential head of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party who has served repeatedly in Netanyahu's previous governments, is disqualified from serving as a minister after he was convicted last year for tax offenses and placed on probation as part of a plea deal.&nbsp; 
 
The verdict spells trouble for the coalition&nbsp;as some Shas members urged PM Netanyahu to find a solution so that Deri retains the title he deserves as head of a mid-sized party or else&nbsp;they could bolt the coalition, shrinking 64-seat majority by 11 seats in the 120-member Knesset. 
 
Talking to&nbsp;Kan public radio, Yakov Margi, a Shas Cabinet minister, said, "if Aryeh Deri isn't in the government, there isn't a government." 
 
Judge Yosef Elron was&nbsp;the only contrarian, arguing that Deri ought to be made to file an appeal with the Central Election Committee, which should then decide the case.&nbsp;Following covert warnings that the coalition would hasten its efforts to significantly curtail the court's authority in the event that Deri is found ineligible, it is unclear how the new administration will respond.

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The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it.

The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it. The judges consider Deri's appointment as “unreasonable in the extreme” in light of the numerous corruption charges against him, reported the Times of Israel. Deri, who took the oath alongside the rest of the government on December 29, must therefore be fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in accordance with the court's verdict. Together with Uzi Vogelman, Anat Baron, Daphne Barak-Erez, Yael Willner, and others, Court President Esther Hayut voted to revoke Deri's appointment. The ruling deepens a rift over the power of courts in Israel and could turn out to be the first coalition crisis for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Also watch | US supplies reportedly kept in Israel to help Ukraine The high court ruled that Deri, the influential head of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party who has served repeatedly in Netanyahu's previous governments, is disqualified from serving as a minister after he was convicted last year for tax offenses and placed on probation as part of a plea deal. The verdict spells trouble for the coalition as some Shas members urged PM Netanyahu to find a solution so that Deri retains the title he deserves as head of a mid-sized party or else they could bolt the coalition, shrinking 64-seat majority by 11 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Talking to Kan public radio, Yakov Margi, a Shas Cabinet minister, said, "if Aryeh Deri isn't in the government, there isn't a government." Judge Yosef Elron was the only contrarian, arguing that Deri ought to be made to file an appeal with the Central Election Committee, which should then decide the case. Following covert warnings that the coalition would hasten its efforts to significantly curtail the court's authority in the event that Deri is found ineligible, it is unclear how the new administration will respond. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel’s high court strikes down Shas leader Aryeh Deri’s appointment as minister over tax offenses

Israel's Supreme Court ordered Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday to remove his senior minister Aryeh Deri over a past tax fraud conviction. The minister in question is Netanyahu's Health and Interior Minister.

Israel PM Netanyahu ordered to remove Health & Interior Minister Aryeh Deri

Israel's Supreme Court ordered Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday to remove his senior minister Aryeh Deri over a past tax fraud conviction.

Israel's Supreme Court orders Netanyahu to remove minister Aryeh Deri

Massive protests erupted in Israel last weekend as thousands of people took to the streets to oppose judicial reforms being rolled out by the right-wing government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Around 100,000 protestors participated in the demonstrations held at Habima Square, while hundreds of people gathered in front of President Isaac Herzog's residence in Jerusalem. Protestors carried posters referring to the Netanyahu government as a government of shame. &nbsp;They accuse the ruling coalition of undermining democracy in Israel by giving the government more say in the appointment of the judges. The reforms will also make it easier for the government to overturn the Supreme Court’s ruling.

<h2>What are Netanyahu’s judicial reforms that have sparked protests in Israel?</h2>

The right-wing government of Netanyahu wants to establish an artificial majority in the panel that is responsible for appointing judges in the Supreme Court. Currently, there are 9 members on the panel, including two lawyers, two parliamentarians, two cabinet ministers and 3 Supreme Court judges. A minimum majority of 7-2 is required to get a judge appointed as a Supreme Court justice. Netanyahu government wants to completely overhaul this arrangement.&nbsp;

Under the proposed reforms, the panel will be expanded to 11. Under the new regime, one additional cabinet minister and parliamentarian will be seated on the panel. Also, now only one lawyer would be required to sit on the panel while the other person can be any “public figure.” Additionally, the majority mark has been reduced to just six votes, thus, giving the government an absolute majority in the appointment panel.

<h2>What is the Netanyahu-led ruling coalition saying to justify the new judicial reforms?</h2>

As per right-wing elements in the Netanyahu-led ruling coalition, the reforms are being rolled out to check Supreme Court’s “overreaching”. Member of Knesset from the Religious Zionism party, a part of the ruling coalition, Simcha Rothman argues that unelected officials should never have an upper hand in the appointment of the judges. The Zionist leader wants the will of the people to influence the appointment panel. On the question of the government overturning the court’s rulings, Rothman said that there was no law in Israel that “explicitly allows the High Court to exercise judicial review over legislation.” He stated that radical left-wing politicians and activists are using the current judicial system to enable their judicial activism in the country.

<h2>What are the anti-government protesters saying?</h2>

Protesters fear that the judicial reforms will enable the right-wing government of Israel to overrun checks and balances set in place by the Israeli constitution. Without worrying about challenges in Supreme Court, the government will be able to rush through legislation in the Knesset legalising settlements in the West Bank. Critics also say the reforms could be used to get the ongoing trial against Benjamin Netanyahu scrapped. Israeli leader Netanyahu is facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, although he vehemently denies these allegations.&nbsp;

Massive protests erupted in Israel last weekend as thousands of people took to the streets to oppose judicial reforms being rolled out by the right-wing government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Massive protests erupted in Israel last weekend as thousands of people took to the streets to oppose judicial reforms being rolled out by the right-wing government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Around 100,000 protestors participated in the demonstrations held at Habima Square, while hundreds of people gathered in front of President Isaac Herzog's residence in Jerusalem. Protestors carried posters referring to the Netanyahu government as a government of shame. They accuse the ruling coalition of undermining democracy in Israel by giving the government more say in the appointment of the judges. The reforms will also make it easier for the government to overturn the Supreme Court’s ruling. What are Netanyahu’s judicial reforms that have sparked protests in Israel? The right-wing government of Netanyahu wants to establish an artificial majority in the panel that is responsible for appointing judges in the Supreme Court. Currently, there are 9 members on the panel, including two lawyers, two parliamentarians, two cabinet ministers and 3 Supreme Court judges. A minimum majority of 7-2 is required to get a judge appointed as a Supreme Court justice. Netanyahu government wants to completely overhaul this arrangement. Under the proposed reforms, the panel will be expanded to 11. Under the new regime, one additional cabinet minister and parliamentarian will be seated on the panel. Also, now only one lawyer would be required to sit on the panel while the other person can be any “public figure.” Additionally, the majority mark has been reduced to just six votes, thus, giving the government an absolute majority in the appointment panel. What is the Netanyahu-led ruling coalition saying to justify the new judicial reforms? As per right-wing elements in the Netanyahu-led ruling coalition, the reforms are being rolled out to check Supreme Court’s “overreaching”. Member of Knesset from the Religious Zionism party, a part of the ruling coalition, Simcha Rothman argues that unelected officials should never have an upper hand in the appointment of the judges. The Zionist leader wants the will of the people to influence the appointment panel. On the question of the government overturning the court’s rulings, Rothman said that there was no law in Israel that “explicitly allows the High Court to exercise judicial review over legislation.” He stated that radical left-wing politicians and activists are using the current judicial system to enable their judicial activism in the country. What are the anti-government protesters saying? Protesters fear that the judicial reforms will enable the right-wing government of Israel to overrun checks and balances set in place by the Israeli constitution. Without worrying about challenges in Supreme Court, the government will be able to rush through legislation in the Knesset legalising settlements in the West Bank. Critics also say the reforms could be used to get the ongoing trial against Benjamin Netanyahu scrapped. Israeli leader Netanyahu is facing charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, although he vehemently denies these allegations.

Explained: What are Benjamin Netanyahu’s judicial reforms that have sparked massive protests in Israel?

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting over Judicial Reforms. Tens of thousands of Israelis demonstrated in three major cities against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial reform plans. The organisers are accusing him of undermining democratic rule weeks after his reelection.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu holds meeting over Judicial Reforms

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu to move ahead with the Legal Reforms

Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics.&nbsp;Despite rain, the protesters continued the rally as they decried a "government of shame" and appealed to people to, "bring down the dictator", reported AFP.&nbsp; The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December.

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"The situation is worrying and scary," said 22-year-old Aya Tal, who was part of the protest and is employed in the high-tech industry. "They want to take away our rights... We must unite,” she added.&nbsp;

As per reports in local media, rallies were also held outside the residences of the president and the prime minister, in Jerusalem and the city of Haifa.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, who has now become the longest-serving prime minister of Israel, came to power after entering into a coalition with ultra-Orthodox and extreme-right Jewish parties, with some of the&nbsp;members now heading important ministries.&nbsp;

Protesters demanded that Netanyahu step down from his position as the latter continues to fight charges of corruption in court.&nbsp;

"Bibi (Netanyahu) doesn't want a democracy, we don't need fascists in the Knesset," stated one sign raised at the protests held in Tel Aviv, as they referred to the Israeli parliament.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government

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The streets around Habima Square in Tel Aviv were filled with crowds chanting "democracy, democracy".

Currently, in Israel, the authority of repealing laws, which are considered discriminatory, lies with the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Former Supreme Court judge Ayala Procaccia said that the people of Israel "will not accept... the destruction of the basic values of our system." "We are at a fateful moment for the future of Israel," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics.

Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics. Despite rain, the protesters continued the rally as they decried a "government of shame" and appealed to people to, "bring down the dictator", reported AFP. The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December. ALSO READ| Netanyahu re-election: How Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' in India-Israel ties "The situation is worrying and scary," said 22-year-old Aya Tal, who was part of the protest and is employed in the high-tech industry. "They want to take away our rights... We must unite,” she added. As per reports in local media, rallies were also held outside the residences of the president and the prime minister, in Jerusalem and the city of Haifa. Netanyahu, who has now become the longest-serving prime minister of Israel, came to power after entering into a coalition with ultra-Orthodox and extreme-right Jewish parties, with some of the members now heading important ministries. Protesters demanded that Netanyahu step down from his position as the latter continues to fight charges of corruption in court. "Bibi (Netanyahu) doesn't want a democracy, we don't need fascists in the Knesset," stated one sign raised at the protests held in Tel Aviv, as they referred to the Israeli parliament. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government The streets around Habima Square in Tel Aviv were filled with crowds chanting "democracy, democracy". Currently, in Israel, the authority of repealing laws, which are considered discriminatory, lies with the Supreme Court. Former Supreme Court judge Ayala Procaccia said that the people of Israel "will not accept... the destruction of the basic values of our system." "We are at a fateful moment for the future of Israel," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decry ‘government of shame’

Tens of thousands of Israelis demonstrated in three major cities against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial reform plans. The organisers are accusing him of undermining democratic rule weeks after his reelection.

Israel: People hold protest against proposed judicial reforms

Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led&nbsp;by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes days&nbsp;after his administration’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled his plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system, which opponents and critics say threaten democracy and freedom.&nbsp;

What is the legal reform plan about?

On Wednesday, the country’s justice minister announced the new government’s long-promised overhaul of the judicial system which is also supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Additionally, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, reported Associated Press.&nbsp;

The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it is the feature of the plan which has garnered controversy and it is the Override Clause which would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-government-lays-out-sweeping-court-reform-plan-setting-up-showdown-with-the-judiciary-549524">Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary</a>

Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government. Currently, the Judicial Appointments Committee includes lawmakers, from both the government and the opposition, and judges and representatives from the Israel Bar Association.

Furthermore, given that Israel does not have a written constitution, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remain&nbsp;weak since the ruling government typically holds a majority in the Parliament.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-israels-most-right-wing-coalition-netanyahu-to-form-new-government-545646">WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government</a>

This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Netanyahu government

The Netanyahu government is said to be the most right-wing and religiously conservative in Israel’s over seven-decade history. It recently came under fire after its National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque which drew widespread condemnation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

Additionally, prior to the government’s swearing-in, the coalition agreements called for legislation that would allow service providers to refuse service on the grounds of religious beliefs which many say would be legalising discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and other targeted sections in Israel.&nbsp;

This comes after the incumbent PM Netanyahu won the elections in November and took office last month with his right-wing allies who now hold key ministerial positions in the Israeli government.&nbsp;

What happened at the protests?

The protest was reportedly led by some lawmakers from Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where the local media report citing organisers said that over 10,000 protesters gathered for the rally in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square. According to media reports, protesters waved Israel and LGBTQ+ pride flags and some were seen with a Palestinian flag with placards that read, “The settler government is against me” and “Democracy in danger” and even a banner that read “crime minister”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-most-right-wing-coalition-and-its-many-challenges-549980">Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges</a> 
 
The demonstrators affiliated with&nbsp;Standing Together group and other organisations marched toward the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and held a rally there where leaders gave speeches while others carried out a torchlight march through the city streets, reported the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, others also called for peace and co-existence between Jews and Arab residents of the country.&nbsp;

Several prominent activist groups in the country even warned the government that these reforms would not be passed without unprecedented civil resistance. “This evening, friends, we have built a new democratic camp,” said the CEOs of an NGO, Breaking the Silence, Yael Lotan and Avner Gvaryahu, addressing the protestors on Saturday.&nbsp;

They added, “One that includes Jews and Arabs, men and women, straight people and LGBTQ people, secular and religious, united against one evil government and for the sake of a better future in this place,” reported the local media.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-israeli-government-approve-steps-to-penalise-palestinians-550249">New Israeli government approve steps to penalise Palestinians</a>

“Extremists and dangerous actors in the newly established government are already planning how to hurt all of us,” said an activist from NGO Standing Together, reported by the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp; 
 
They added, “How to deepen racial discrimination against Arab citizens, how to cut social budgets, how to discriminate based on gender. We won’t sit home and hold hands and give in to despair and frustration. Where there is struggle, there is also hope. And we will go out and struggle for our home.”

Meanwhile, one of the activist groups called the Black Flag movement which reportedly organised Saturday’s protests called this reform plan a “coup d’état” which will encounter a nation of Israel which is “determined to guard our democracy and will fail.” The group has also vowed to continue the protests next Saturday and said, “Today we are starting the most important journey: A preventative strike against dictatorship.” 
&nbsp;

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מפגינים רבים החלו להאסף ברחבת הבימה בתל אביב בהפגנה מגד הרפורמה להחלשת מערכת המשפט וצעדי הממשלה. כיאה לאופוזיציה המפוצלת מהכיכר יצאו שתי צעדות. אחת בהובלת ״עומדים ביחד״ לכיוון המוזיאון ושניה בהובלת ארגונים ואנשים אחרים שתצא בהמשך. בכיכר נמצאים כבר כמה אלפים. עדכונים יהיו כאן &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/h05ppvKw6L">pic.twitter.com/h05ppvKw6L</a>
— Bar Peleg (@bar_peleg) <a href="https://twitter.com/bar_peleg/status/1611777868534611973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The protests on January 7&nbsp;were followed by a rally held by activists from the Darkenu civil society movement, outside Levin’s house on Friday. The group reportedly claims that the High Court served as a “flak jacket” to protect Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers from being brought to the International Criminal Court.&nbsp;

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“The Override Clause and Levin’s moves to weaken the justice system would hurt IDF soldiers, and hurting our soldiers is a red line,” said the group’s CEO and former member of Knesset Rachel Azaria, reported the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp;

The protests on Saturday witnessed the attendance of a number of MKs including Merav Michaeli and Gilad Kariv from the opposition Labor party, Aymen Odeh, chair of the predominantly Arab Hadash-Ta’al alliance, and former vice PM Tzipi Livni who expressed their support for the protesters.&nbsp;

“What energies in the square! Together with thousands of amazing demonstrators we went out to demonstrate and shout in a clear voice - our country cannot be destroyed!” said the Labour party chairperson, Michaeli on Twitter. She added, “We will continue to fight for our democracy.”&nbsp;

Israeli former supreme court president’s grim warning

Former Supreme Court president, Aharon Barak, who is also Israel’s most revered jurist, in multiple TV interviews on Saturday urged the justice minister to review these sweeping reforms. According to a report by Times of Israel, in a grim warning, he said that the proposed plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system will give all the power to the PM, leave citizens with no defence against violation of any and all of their rights, and mark the beginning of the end of the modern state of Israel as we know it.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unsc-stresses-on-al-aqsa-status-quo-israel-palestine-envoy-trade-barbs-at-un-meet-549892">UNSC stresses on Al-Aqsa status quo; Israel, Palestine envoy trade barbs at UN meet</a>

“If putting me to death would put an end to this drastic shake-up…I’d be prepared to go before a firing squad,” he said in the context of his stance and verdicts as a justice from between 1978 and 2006 and the SC president for 11 years. Speaking about his time as a justice the 86-year-old said that he tried not to be overly activist nor overly conservative while delivering verdicts and took into account Israel’s history, Zionism and the country’s security needs and that he was sorry to be depicted as “the enemy of the people”, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

According to the report, Barak also said that he feels like he is obligated to warn the public about the “grave danger” their rights are in and it would not matter if they are, Jew, Arab, ultra-Orthodox, or not ultra-Orthodox. Israeli democracy will be left with one branch of governance which would be the PM.&nbsp;

He also went on to explain that nobody will be protected from the political majority since the Knesset is powerless against the majority coalition, and Israel has no constitution, Bill of Rights, or even a second House, reported the Times of Israel. It will also affect Israel on an international level, Barak said, noting that the High Court has acted as a legal “Iron Dome” ensuring Israel’s democratic functioning, including in its treatment of the Palestinians.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-new-proposals-give-sweeping-power-to-the-israeli-government-549574">Israel's new proposals give sweeping power to the Israeli government</a>

If the High Court is affected by Levin's plans to weaken it, “our chief of staff and government ministers will immediately be arrested when they travel overseas…The leaders of the country will be put on trial in the International Criminal Court in The Hague,” as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

What has Levin said about the plans?

Subsequently, even the justice minister was also interviewed on Saturday, where he said that while he respects the former top judge, he “does not understand the essence of democracy.” Levin also dismissed the idea of establishing a committee with Barak to compromise on his proposal and said that he would discuss the plan with key members of the parliament and hope that the final legislation is “as close as possible” to the proposed one, said the media report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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He also, in turn, criticised Barak and said he “fundamentally contradicted democracy…all power rests with the judges, and they decide what’s proportionate and reasonable. That’s not democratic.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes days after his administration’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled his plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system, which opponents and critics say threaten democracy and freedom. What is the legal reform plan about? On Wednesday, the country’s justice minister announced the new government’s long-promised overhaul of the judicial system which is also supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Additionally, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, reported Associated Press. The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it is the feature of the plan which has garnered controversy and it is the Override Clause which would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court. ALSO READ | Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government. Currently, the Judicial Appointments Committee includes lawmakers, from both the government and the opposition, and judges and representatives from the Israel Bar Association. Furthermore, given that Israel does not have a written constitution, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remain weak since the ruling government typically holds a majority in the Parliament. ALSO WATCH | WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel. Netanyahu government The Netanyahu government is said to be the most right-wing and religiously conservative in Israel’s over seven-decade history. It recently came under fire after its National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque which drew widespread condemnation. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? Additionally, prior to the government’s swearing-in, the coalition agreements called for legislation that would allow service providers to refuse service on the grounds of religious beliefs which many say would be legalising discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and other targeted sections in Israel. This comes after the incumbent PM Netanyahu won the elections in November and took office last month with his right-wing allies who now hold key ministerial positions in the Israeli government. What happened at the protests? The protest was reportedly led by some lawmakers from Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where the local media report citing organisers said that over 10,000 protesters gathered for the rally in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square. According to media reports, protesters waved Israel and LGBTQ+ pride flags and some were seen with a Palestinian flag with placards that read, “The settler government is against me” and “Democracy in danger” and even a banner that read “crime minister”. ALSO WATCH | Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges The demonstrators affiliated with Standing Together group and other organisations marched toward the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and held a rally there where leaders gave speeches while others carried out a torchlight march through the city streets, reported the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, others also called for peace and co-existence between Jews and Arab residents of the country. Several prominent activist groups in the country even warned the government that these reforms would not be passed without unprecedented civil resistance. “This evening, friends, we have built a new democratic camp,” said the CEOs of an NGO, Breaking the Silence, Yael Lotan and Avner Gvaryahu, addressing the protestors on Saturday. They added, “One that includes Jews and Arabs, men and women, straight people and LGBTQ people, secular and religious, united against one evil government and for the sake of a better future in this place,” reported the local media. ALSO WATCH | New Israeli government approve steps to penalise Palestinians “Extremists and dangerous actors in the newly established government are already planning how to hurt all of us,” said an activist from NGO Standing Together, reported by the Jerusalem Post. They added, “How to deepen racial discrimination against Arab citizens, how to cut social budgets, how to discriminate based on gender. We won’t sit home and hold hands and give in to despair and frustration. Where there is struggle, there is also hope. And we will go out and struggle for our home.” Meanwhile, one of the activist groups called the Black Flag movement which reportedly organised Saturday’s protests called this reform plan a “coup d’état” which will encounter a nation of Israel which is “determined to guard our democracy and will fail.” The group has also vowed to continue the protests next Saturday and said, “Today we are starting the most important journey: A preventative strike against dictatorship.” מפגינים רבים החלו להאסף ברחבת הבימה בתל אביב בהפגנה מגד הרפורמה להחלשת מערכת המשפט וצעדי הממשלה. כיאה לאופוזיציה המפוצלת מהכיכר יצאו שתי צעדות. אחת בהובלת ״עומדים ביחד״ לכיוון המוזיאון ושניה בהובלת ארגונים ואנשים אחרים שתצא בהמשך. בכיכר נמצאים כבר כמה אלפים. עדכונים יהיו כאן >> pic.twitter.com/h05ppvKw6L — Bar Peleg (@bar_peleg) January 7, 2023 × The protests on January 7 were followed by a rally held by activists from the Darkenu civil society movement, outside Levin’s house on Friday. The group reportedly claims that the High Court served as a “flak jacket” to protect Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers from being brought to the International Criminal Court. ALSO READ | Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body “The Override Clause and Levin’s moves to weaken the justice system would hurt IDF soldiers, and hurting our soldiers is a red line,” said the group’s CEO and former member of Knesset Rachel Azaria, reported the Jerusalem Post. The protests on Saturday witnessed the attendance of a number of MKs including Merav Michaeli and Gilad Kariv from the opposition Labor party, Aymen Odeh, chair of the predominantly Arab Hadash-Ta’al alliance, and former vice PM Tzipi Livni who expressed their support for the protesters. “What energies in the square! Together with thousands of amazing demonstrators we went out to demonstrate and shout in a clear voice - our country cannot be destroyed!” said the Labour party chairperson, Michaeli on Twitter. She added, “We will continue to fight for our democracy.” Israeli former supreme court president’s grim warning Former Supreme Court president, Aharon Barak, who is also Israel’s most revered jurist, in multiple TV interviews on Saturday urged the justice minister to review these sweeping reforms. According to a report by Times of Israel, in a grim warning, he said that the proposed plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system will give all the power to the PM, leave citizens with no defence against violation of any and all of their rights, and mark the beginning of the end of the modern state of Israel as we know it. ALSO WATCH | UNSC stresses on Al-Aqsa status quo; Israel, Palestine envoy trade barbs at UN meet “If putting me to death would put an end to this drastic shake-up…I’d be prepared to go before a firing squad,” he said in the context of his stance and verdicts as a justice from between 1978 and 2006 and the SC president for 11 years. Speaking about his time as a justice the 86-year-old said that he tried not to be overly activist nor overly conservative while delivering verdicts and took into account Israel’s history, Zionism and the country’s security needs and that he was sorry to be depicted as “the enemy of the people”, reported the Times of Israel. According to the report, Barak also said that he feels like he is obligated to warn the public about the “grave danger” their rights are in and it would not matter if they are, Jew, Arab, ultra-Orthodox, or not ultra-Orthodox. Israeli democracy will be left with one branch of governance which would be the PM. He also went on to explain that nobody will be protected from the political majority since the Knesset is powerless against the majority coalition, and Israel has no constitution, Bill of Rights, or even a second House, reported the Times of Israel. It will also affect Israel on an international level, Barak said, noting that the High Court has acted as a legal “Iron Dome” ensuring Israel’s democratic functioning, including in its treatment of the Palestinians. ALSO WATCH | Israel's new proposals give sweeping power to the Israeli government If the High Court is affected by Levin's plans to weaken it, “our chief of staff and government ministers will immediately be arrested when they travel overseas…The leaders of the country will be put on trial in the International Criminal Court in The Hague,” as per Times of Israel. What has Levin said about the plans? Subsequently, even the justice minister was also interviewed on Saturday, where he said that while he respects the former top judge, he “does not understand the essence of democracy.” Levin also dismissed the idea of establishing a committee with Barak to compromise on his proposal and said that he would discuss the plan with key members of the parliament and hope that the final legislation is “as close as possible” to the proposed one, said the media report. ALSO READ | Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery, Israeli cops launch probe He also, in turn, criticised Barak and said he “fundamentally contradicted democracy…all power rests with the judges, and they decide what’s proportionate and reasonable. That’s not democratic.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms

Not everyone is happy with Israel's new right-wing coalition government, which came to power after weeks of painstaking negotiations made politicians bargain over posts in a way that has left other in disarray.

Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'.

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'. Justice Minister Yair Levin on Wednesday presented the 'judicial overhaul package' aimed at neutering the judicial system of the country, according to the detractors. “I’ve warned against the damage caused by judicialisation. Now, the time has come to act," said Levin while presenting the overhaul package. Under the revamp programme, the country's parliament, also called Knesset will be given powers to override Supreme Court decisions with a simple majority of 61 votes. WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities × Calling the legislation 'balanced', Levin enlisted another rule that will forbid the court from using a test of reasonableness to judge the decisions taken by the government. Moreover, the panel that chooses the judges will be reformed and politicians will have an enhanced say in the selection. Currently, a nine-member panel chooses the judges which has three members of the government. However, if Levin's overhaul gets the nod, two representatives chosen by him i.e the justice minister will also sit on the panel. Effectively the government will have the majority of five against four in the committee. Lastly, the ministers will be able to appoint their own legal advisers under the new plan. Before signing off, Levin added that the package will be debated in the 120-seat Knesset. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the overhaul of the judiciary saying the new legislation will create a balance between the courts, government and the parliament. “We will revise the way we govern. We’ll take steps that strengthen personal security throughout the state. We’ll start by enacting reforms that will ensure the proper balance between the three branches of government.” Read more: Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history The critics of the plan argue that by passing the said legislation, the Netanyahu government will be undermining democracy in the country. The believe that power will reside in the hands of the most unilateral coalition in the history of the country without any checks and balances in place. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leading the country's most right-wing government ever, pledged to press ahead with policies that have irked critics back at home and also abroad - one such policy is the overhaul of the country's judicial system which can potentially weaken the Supreme Court.

Israel govt's controversial court reforms; minister unveils plan that may weaken top court

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar&nbsp;Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

Netanyahu was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm, marking his first public visit to the Gulf state.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He had many unofficial visits to the Arab country before the 2020 Abraham Accords, but never an official visit.&nbsp;

Ynet news quoting close aides of Netanyahu reported that there was no connection between the incidents, saying that the visit was postponed due to logistical reasons.&nbsp;

Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque drew wide condemnation from countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and Turkey, while western nations like US, France, and the European Union, appealed for calm and protect the sensitive status quo. The Gaza-based Hamas terrorist group, on the other hand, carried out threats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site</h2>

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The UAE government "underscored the need to respect the custodial role of Jordan over the holy sites and endowments in accordance with international law and the historical situation at hand, and not to compromise the authority of the Jerusalem Endowment Administration and Al-Aqsa Mosque" and called on Israel "to assume responsibility for reducing escalation and instability in the region."&nbsp;

Al-Aqsa Mosque is equally revered by Muslims and Jews. While it is the third-holiest place in Islam, Jews consider it be to their sacred site and refer to it as the Temple Mount.&nbsp;

There is a long-standing tacit agreement that non-Muslims can visit the site at specific times but are not allowed to pray there.&nbsp;

However, a growing number of Jews, most of them Israeli nationalists, recently have covertly prayed at the compound, which has been decried by Palestinians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Netanyahu was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm, marking his first public visit to the Gulf state. He had many unofficial visits to the Arab country before the 2020 Abraham Accords, but never an official visit. Ynet news quoting close aides of Netanyahu reported that there was no connection between the incidents, saying that the visit was postponed due to logistical reasons. Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque drew wide condemnation from countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and Turkey, while western nations like US, France, and the European Union, appealed for calm and protect the sensitive status quo. The Gaza-based Hamas terrorist group, on the other hand, carried out threats. WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site The UAE government "underscored the need to respect the custodial role of Jordan over the holy sites and endowments in accordance with international law and the historical situation at hand, and not to compromise the authority of the Jerusalem Endowment Administration and Al-Aqsa Mosque" and called on Israel "to assume responsibility for reducing escalation and instability in the region." Al-Aqsa Mosque is equally revered by Muslims and Jews. While it is the third-holiest place in Islam, Jews consider it be to their sacred site and refer to it as the Temple Mount. There is a long-standing tacit agreement that non-Muslims can visit the site at specific times but are not allowed to pray there. However, a growing number of Jews, most of them Israeli nationalists, recently have covertly prayed at the compound, which has been decried by Palestinians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip hours after row over Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque : Report

A day after the United General Assembly passed a resolution asking the International Court of Justice its opinion on legal consequences of the Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territory. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused the global body of distorting historical facts.

Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.&nbsp;"The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision".

Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built.

Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ

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Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land.

The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them.

The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem."

Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits.

The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. "The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision". Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built. Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ × Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land. The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them. The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem." Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits. The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Benjamin Netanyahu slams ‘despicable’ UN vote, says Israel not bound by it

73 years old Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as Israel's new Prime Minister. Netanyahu has already unveiled his right-wing government's policy priorities

EXCLUSIVE: Ex-member of Knesset Dov Lipman speaks to WION

The King of Jordan has warned Israel against changing the status quo of holy sites in Jerusalem. This comes after Netanyahu laid out a plan promising expansion of West Bank settlements. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Jordan's King Abdullah II warns Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM&nbsp;as he heads the 37th government of Israel.&nbsp;

The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November.&nbsp;

Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with&nbsp;former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post.&nbsp;

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🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1608469523774181377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1608472133600182272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government.&nbsp;

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Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. <a href="https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2">https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2</a>
— ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelReform/status/1608390089968582658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said,&nbsp;"We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords."&nbsp;

He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time."&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members.

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM as he heads the 37th government of Israel. The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November. Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post. 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/woeI4sOxBk — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education. Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government. Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2 — ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) December 29, 2022 × In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said, "We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords." He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time." United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Benjamin Netanyahu sworn in as Israel's Prime Minister, heads country's most right-wing govt ever

Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the&nbsp;Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset.

Netanyahu spent the last 17 months before his re-election&nbsp;in the opposition while facing&nbsp;three corruption trials. During his time out of office, there was a minimal deviation from the already&nbsp;established cooperation apparatus between India and Israel.

Experts that WION reached out to, pointed out the convergence of interests between India and Israel&nbsp;that is expected to fuel the bilateral cooperation&nbsp;during Netanyahu's upcoming tenure in Jerusalem's Prime Minister's Office.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-benjamin-netanyahu-forms-new-coalition-government-545456">Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government</a>

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"This convergence of interests meant that when Israel’s foreign policy orientation vis-à-vis its Arab neighbours was undergoing transformation, it found a partner like India to establish regional mechanisms such as I2U2 and tackle challenges of food security and climate change," says Sameer Patil, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation.

Netanyahu and the state of I2U2 or 'West Asia Quad'

&nbsp;

"With Netanyahu's re-election as Israel's Prime Minister, the I2U2 quadrilateral will get a further boost," says Sifra Lentin, Fellow, Bombay History Studies at Mumbai-based Gateway House, referring to the crucial multilateral group with geopolitical implications, consisting of India, Israel, the United States and United Arab Emirates (I2U2).

Initially called the International Forum for Economic Cooperation, the I2U2 grouping held its first&nbsp;summit virtually in July 2022. Its joint statement reaffirmed the support for the Abraham accords and pledged India-centric investments worth $2.33 billion in the areas of food security and clean energy. This includes 300 megawatts hybrid renewable energy project in India's Gujarat state with an estimated cost of $330 million as well as $2 billion-worth investments to develop a series of food parks across India.

"We need to look forward to India and Israel as partners in a multilateral like I2U2 where we have other good friends like the UAE and the United States. India also has excellent relations with all the signatories of the Abraham Accords," adds Sifra Lentin, referring to the accords of normalised diplomatic ties of Israel with Bahrain and UAE, respectively.&nbsp;

Cooperation in developing startups

In November 2021, India and Israel signed a bilateral agreement for innovation in dual-use technologies. A prior MoU with a contribution of US$20 million from each side over five years (2018-2023) continues to fuel joint India-Israel Research and Development projects.&nbsp;

The total trade between the two countries stood at $7.86 billion in 2021-22.&nbsp;

Experts say that the convergence of mutual interests between India and Israel&nbsp;is 'very strong'.&nbsp;Be it defence, trade, education, tourism, or diaspora relations.&nbsp;

India-Israel relations: Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic'

Experts say that one must not forget that there was an acceleration in Indo-Israel engagements when Modi and Netanyahu were at the helm of their respective national capitals. At the same time, the scale of ambition brought about by the two leaders must get its due credit.

"What Netanyahu should get credit for is the ambition that he brought to the bilateral relationship. In Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Netanyahu got a like-minded ambitious counterpart. As a result, both sides explored newer areas for collaboration such as emerging technologies, while strengthening the existing partnership in sectors like defence," ORF's Sameer Patil told WION.

"The tenor of the bilateral relations has been the same even under his successors but, yes, there is a certain magic with Modi-Bibi at the helm," Sifra Lentin told WION.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the Knesset with 32 seats.

Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Netanyahu spent the last 17 months before his re-election in the opposition while facing three corruption trials. During his time out of office, there was a minimal deviation from the already established cooperation apparatus between India and Israel. Experts that WION reached out to, pointed out the convergence of interests between India and Israel that is expected to fuel the bilateral cooperation during Netanyahu's upcoming tenure in Jerusalem's Prime Minister's Office. WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government × "This convergence of interests meant that when Israel’s foreign policy orientation vis-à-vis its Arab neighbours was undergoing transformation, it found a partner like India to establish regional mechanisms such as I2U2 and tackle challenges of food security and climate change," says Sameer Patil, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation. Netanyahu and the state of I2U2 or 'West Asia Quad' "With Netanyahu's re-election as Israel's Prime Minister, the I2U2 quadrilateral will get a further boost," says Sifra Lentin, Fellow, Bombay History Studies at Mumbai-based Gateway House, referring to the crucial multilateral group with geopolitical implications, consisting of India, Israel, the United States and United Arab Emirates (I2U2). Initially called the International Forum for Economic Cooperation, the I2U2 grouping held its first summit virtually in July 2022. Its joint statement reaffirmed the support for the Abraham accords and pledged India-centric investments worth $2.33 billion in the areas of food security and clean energy. This includes 300 megawatts hybrid renewable energy project in India's Gujarat state with an estimated cost of $330 million as well as $2 billion-worth investments to develop a series of food parks across India. "We need to look forward to India and Israel as partners in a multilateral like I2U2 where we have other good friends like the UAE and the United States. India also has excellent relations with all the signatories of the Abraham Accords," adds Sifra Lentin, referring to the accords of normalised diplomatic ties of Israel with Bahrain and UAE, respectively. Cooperation in developing startups In November 2021, India and Israel signed a bilateral agreement for innovation in dual-use technologies. A prior MoU with a contribution of US$20 million from each side over five years (2018-2023) continues to fuel joint India-Israel Research and Development projects. The total trade between the two countries stood at $7.86 billion in 2021-22. Experts say that the convergence of mutual interests between India and Israel is 'very strong'. Be it defence, trade, education, tourism, or diaspora relations. India-Israel relations: Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' Experts say that one must not forget that there was an acceleration in Indo-Israel engagements when Modi and Netanyahu were at the helm of their respective national capitals. At the same time, the scale of ambition brought about by the two leaders must get its due credit. "What Netanyahu should get credit for is the ambition that he brought to the bilateral relationship. In Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Netanyahu got a like-minded ambitious counterpart. As a result, both sides explored newer areas for collaboration such as emerging technologies, while strengthening the existing partnership in sectors like defence," ORF's Sameer Patil told WION. "The tenor of the bilateral relations has been the same even under his successors but, yes, there is a certain magic with Modi-Bibi at the helm," Sifra Lentin told WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netanyahu re-election: How Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' in India-Israel ties

Benjamin Netanyahu will be sworn in as Prime Minister of Israel for a record sixth time on Thursday. Netanyahu, whose coalition won a clear majority in November elections, will head up a highly controversial right-wing government.

WION Dispatch:  PM-designate Benjamin Netanyahu clinches hard-right government deals

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