Israel is in the grip of turmoil. The Defence Minister has been sacked. People are on the streets. Israeli envoys are resigning. Where are things headed? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Israel on the boil | Israel protests 2023 | Israel News | Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed the judicial overhaul until next parliament session amid fears that country's worst national crisis in years could fracture his coalition or escalate into violence.

Israel: Judicial overhaul bill delayed till next parliament session | WION Dispatch

Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan. The reports were later confirmed by Israel’s embassy in India.&nbsp;

“The Histadrut, Israel’s largest labour union, instructed all government employees to go on strike, including Israel's diplomatic missions around the world. The embassy of Israel will be closed today until further notice and no consular services will be provided”, said the Israeli embassy in India, in a statement. The strike by officials of all Israeli missions in India and across the world will remain until it is called off.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-israel-can-tens-of-thousands-of-protesters-stop-netanyahus-judicial-overhaul-plan-576345">Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened</a>

The walkouts were announced in a televised address by Histadrut chairman Arnon Bar-David who said, “I am calling a general strike. We have a mission to stop this legislative process and we will do it.” This has since prompted workers from a range of sectors in Israel to launch a nationwide strike.&nbsp;

Israel’s largest trade union called for its 800,000 members to stop work in healthcare, transit, banking and other fields. Subsequently, the Israel Medical Association also announced a “full strike” of the country’s healthcare system, directly affecting all public hospitals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-judicial-overhaul-legislation-to-be-put-on-hold-until-next-knesset-session-576348">Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session</a>&nbsp;

The strike also affected Ben-Gurion Airport. Israel’s Airport Authority Committee Chairman Pinhas Idan announced that no flights will take off from the airport until further notice and that only flights that are already in the sky will be allowed to land. The announcements also came amid widespread demonstrations which continued on Monday, a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan.

Israel’s embassies across the world, including India, went on strike, on Monday (March 27). This comes as the country’s biggest labour union instructed all government employees to go on strike which included the country’s diplomatic missions around the world over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial judicial overhaul plan. The reports were later confirmed by Israel’s embassy in India. “The Histadrut, Israel’s largest labour union, instructed all government employees to go on strike, including Israel's diplomatic missions around the world. The embassy of Israel will be closed today until further notice and no consular services will be provided”, said the Israeli embassy in India, in a statement. The strike by officials of all Israeli missions in India and across the world will remain until it is called off. ALSO READ | Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened The walkouts were announced in a televised address by Histadrut chairman Arnon Bar-David who said, “I am calling a general strike. We have a mission to stop this legislative process and we will do it.” This has since prompted workers from a range of sectors in Israel to launch a nationwide strike. Israel’s largest trade union called for its 800,000 members to stop work in healthcare, transit, banking and other fields. Subsequently, the Israel Medical Association also announced a “full strike” of the country’s healthcare system, directly affecting all public hospitals. ALSO READ | Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session The strike also affected Ben-Gurion Airport. Israel’s Airport Authority Committee Chairman Pinhas Idan announced that no flights will take off from the airport until further notice and that only flights that are already in the sky will be allowed to land. The announcements also came amid widespread demonstrations which continued on Monday, a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. (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.

Israeli embassies across the world closed ‘until further notice’: Here’s why

Israel’s political crisis escalated into uncharted territory Monday as the country’s largest trade union announced a “historic” strike shutting down transportation, universities, restaurants and retailers in protest against Prime Minister’s Benjamin Netanyahu’s planned judicial overhaul.

Israel's trade union launches general strike over Netanyahu's judicial reforms

Hundreds of thousands of people stopped working across Israel's universities, airports, ports etc. on Monday to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's unprecedented plans to overhaul the country's judicial system.

Universities, airports, ports on strike across Israel over judicial overhaul

Overnight protests in Israel over the proposed judicial reform and the sacking of defence minister&nbsp;Yoav Gallant have prompted various officials to call for a halt to the legislation. Some&nbsp;Hebrew-language media reports say that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to announce a halt to the reform later in the day. He was scheduled to address the Knesset at 10:30 am on Monday after holding talks with allies overnight. However, the latest reports suggest that the allies in his coalition are threatening to break up the government if he halts the judicial reform.

Local media reports say that&nbsp;National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has threatened to quit the coalition if the reform is stopped.

Meanwhile, Histadrut union head Arnon Bar-David has called for a "historic" labour strike to force the government to halt the proposal. Paying heed to the call,&nbsp;Ben Gurion Airport announced&nbsp;an immediate halt to departures. Hospitals and medical workers also joined in the strike.

Municipalities and local councils agreed to join the general strike, with&nbsp;businesses and other local authorities saying they are shutting down operations. Schools were already ending for a Passover break, and now kindergartens and daycare centres have also said they will be closing down.

On Sunday night, protesters swarmed the streets of Tel Aviv after Netanyahu fired his cabinet's defence minister following his opposition to the proposed judicial overhaul. People chanted "democratia" and blocked streets and bridges, including the Ayalon Highway, a major intracity freeway. In Jerusalem, near Netanyahu's house, police used water cannons on the demonstrators.&nbsp;

The protests have led to calls from within the coalition to halt the legislative effort. President of the country,&nbsp;Isaac Herzog, also said the judicial reform must stop "immediately".

The mass protests, which quickly turned violent, came a day after Defence minister Yoav Gallant had called for a halt to Netanyahu's controversial plans to overhaul the justice system. On Sunday, Netanyahu sacked Gallant, and the news led to people taking to the streets, waving blue and white Israeli flags.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided this evening to dismiss Defence Minister Yoav Gallant," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.

The planned judicial reforms will hand more power to the government in deciding the appointment of judges. The reform will also make it harder for courts to remove a leader deemed unfit for office, a move that seemed to be in the interest of Netanyahu who is currently on trial on charges of corruption.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/middle-east/netanyahu-fires-israeli-defence-minister-after-his-speech-called-for-halt-on-govts-proposed-legal-plan-576019">Netanyahu fires defence minister after speech calling to halt govt's proposed legal plan</a>

On Saturday, Gallant, a former navy admiral, warned that the overhaul plans risked "a clear, immediate and tangible threat to the security of the state".&nbsp;

"At this time, for the sake of our country, I am willing to take any risk and pay any price," Gallant said in his televised address.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-police-use-water-canons-to-disperse-protesters-575995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In doing so, he became the first member of the cabinet to raise his voice against the controversial plans to overhaul the country’s court system. After being fired, Gallant tweeted, "The state of Israel’s security has always been and will always be my life's mission."

The opposition also slammed Netanyahu for dismissing a minister over the judicial reform.

"State security cannot be a card in the political game. Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight," opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz said in a joint statement.

After protesting outside Netanyahu's house, and managing to breach a security cordon, the crowds moved to the parliament, the Knesset.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Overnight protests in Israel over the proposed judicial reform and the sacking of defence minister Yoav Gallant have prompted various officials to call for a halt to the legislation.

Overnight protests in Israel over the proposed judicial reform and the sacking of defence minister Yoav Gallant have prompted various officials to call for a halt to the legislation. Some Hebrew-language media reports say that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is likely to announce a halt to the reform later in the day. He was scheduled to address the Knesset at 10:30 am on Monday after holding talks with allies overnight. However, the latest reports suggest that the allies in his coalition are threatening to break up the government if he halts the judicial reform. Local media reports say that National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has threatened to quit the coalition if the reform is stopped. Meanwhile, Histadrut union head Arnon Bar-David has called for a "historic" labour strike to force the government to halt the proposal. Paying heed to the call, Ben Gurion Airport announced an immediate halt to departures. Hospitals and medical workers also joined in the strike. Municipalities and local councils agreed to join the general strike, with businesses and other local authorities saying they are shutting down operations. Schools were already ending for a Passover break, and now kindergartens and daycare centres have also said they will be closing down. On Sunday night, protesters swarmed the streets of Tel Aviv after Netanyahu fired his cabinet's defence minister following his opposition to the proposed judicial overhaul. People chanted "democratia" and blocked streets and bridges, including the Ayalon Highway, a major intracity freeway. In Jerusalem, near Netanyahu's house, police used water cannons on the demonstrators. The protests have led to calls from within the coalition to halt the legislative effort. President of the country, Isaac Herzog, also said the judicial reform must stop "immediately". The mass protests, which quickly turned violent, came a day after Defence minister Yoav Gallant had called for a halt to Netanyahu's controversial plans to overhaul the justice system. On Sunday, Netanyahu sacked Gallant, and the news led to people taking to the streets, waving blue and white Israeli flags. "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided this evening to dismiss Defence Minister Yoav Gallant," Netanyahu's office said in a statement. The planned judicial reforms will hand more power to the government in deciding the appointment of judges. The reform will also make it harder for courts to remove a leader deemed unfit for office, a move that seemed to be in the interest of Netanyahu who is currently on trial on charges of corruption. Also Read | Netanyahu fires defence minister after speech calling to halt govt's proposed legal plan On Saturday, Gallant, a former navy admiral, warned that the overhaul plans risked "a clear, immediate and tangible threat to the security of the state". "At this time, for the sake of our country, I am willing to take any risk and pay any price," Gallant said in his televised address. × In doing so, he became the first member of the cabinet to raise his voice against the controversial plans to overhaul the country’s court system. After being fired, Gallant tweeted, "The state of Israel’s security has always been and will always be my life's mission." The opposition also slammed Netanyahu for dismissing a minister over the judicial reform. "State security cannot be a card in the political game. Netanyahu crossed a red line tonight," opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz said in a joint statement. After protesting outside Netanyahu's house, and managing to breach a security cordon, the crowds moved to the parliament, the Knesset. (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.

Chaos in Israel as worker unions strike over judicial reform & Ben Gvir threatens to quit coalition

IN PICS | Israel protests: Thousands take to streets against Netanyahu and his judicial overhaul legislation

Protests in Israel against the judicial reform have been going on from the past three months now. The demonstrations which initially used to be peaceful now often end up in confrontation with the security forces. This time too the clashes erupted between security forces and protesters after they tried to block a highway in Tel Aviv.

Israel protesters now 3-months strong; Defence Min Yoav Gallant appeals to halt investigation

Tens of thousands of Israelis protested against the judicial reforms in Tel Aviv and other cities on Thursday with the police firing water cannons at those blocking a highway in the city. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged on Thursday to restore unity in the country that has seen intense divisions over the proposed reforms.

Netanyahu said on television that he was determined to advance the judicial reforms. However, he said he wanted to reach a solution acceptable to both supporters and critics of the proposal.

"The opponents of the reform are not traitors. Partisans are not fascists," he said.

"I will do everything, everything, to bring calm and end division among the people" after months of protest, including objections from high-level officials.

People of the country fear that the judicial reform will let politicians wield immense power over the courts, hence threatening Israeli democracy.

Meanwhile, Israelis in the ultra-orthodox city of Bnei Brak also took to the streets against the government's overhaul of the court system. Drone footage showed thousands of protesters marching in the city. People could be seen carrying a huge replica of the country's declaration of independence.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-11-weeks-of-protests-israel-modifies-key-judicial-reform-574073">After 11 weeks of protests, Israel modifies key judicial reform</a>

Netanyahu's government, which includes religious and ultranationalist parties, is largely supported by Bnei Brak's Orthodox community.&nbsp;

Protests have been intensifying in Israel over the past few months and several similar demonstrations have been seen in the streets.&nbsp; 
 
Defence Minister Yoav Gallant cancelled a planned address to the nation on Thursday evening after a meeting with Netanyahu, just before the latter addresses the people on TV. Notably, Gallant has backed calls to pause the legislative process for dialogue with its opponents.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/judicial-reforms-protest-cracks-in-israelis-coalition-government-575204/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, lawmakers approved a law that restricts grounds for declaring a premier unfit for office. Opposition chief Yair Lapid said that the move was "a personal law" to protect Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption.

The protests have escalated since the start of the year when Netanyahu's hard-right government introduced the new legislation aimed at limiting the authority of the Supreme Court.

Military reservists have joined the protests and senior officials in the finance ministry warned this week of an economic backlash.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Tens of thousands of Israelis protested against the judicial reforms in Tel Aviv and other cities on Thursday with the police firing water cannons at those blocking a highway in the city.

Tens of thousands of Israelis protested against the judicial reforms in Tel Aviv and other cities on Thursday with the police firing water cannons at those blocking a highway in the city. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged on Thursday to restore unity in the country that has seen intense divisions over the proposed reforms. Netanyahu said on television that he was determined to advance the judicial reforms. However, he said he wanted to reach a solution acceptable to both supporters and critics of the proposal. "The opponents of the reform are not traitors. Partisans are not fascists," he said. "I will do everything, everything, to bring calm and end division among the people" after months of protest, including objections from high-level officials. People of the country fear that the judicial reform will let politicians wield immense power over the courts, hence threatening Israeli democracy. Meanwhile, Israelis in the ultra-orthodox city of Bnei Brak also took to the streets against the government's overhaul of the court system. Drone footage showed thousands of protesters marching in the city. People could be seen carrying a huge replica of the country's declaration of independence. Also Read | After 11 weeks of protests, Israel modifies key judicial reform Netanyahu's government, which includes religious and ultranationalist parties, is largely supported by Bnei Brak's Orthodox community. Protests have been intensifying in Israel over the past few months and several similar demonstrations have been seen in the streets. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant cancelled a planned address to the nation on Thursday evening after a meeting with Netanyahu, just before the latter addresses the people on TV. Notably, Gallant has backed calls to pause the legislative process for dialogue with its opponents. × Earlier on Thursday, lawmakers approved a law that restricts grounds for declaring a premier unfit for office. Opposition chief Yair Lapid said that the move was "a personal law" to protect Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption. The protests have escalated since the start of the year when Netanyahu's hard-right government introduced the new legislation aimed at limiting the authority of the Supreme Court. Military reservists have joined the protests and senior officials in the finance ministry warned this week of an economic backlash. (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.

Israeli protests over judicial reform spread to more regions as Netanyahu vows unity

For the eleventh week in a row, Israelis demonstrated against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the proposed judicial reforms. Demonstrations were held in cities all across the country on Saturday as people&nbsp;protested the judicial overhaul they believe would give politicians more control over the judiciary.&nbsp;

The overhaul, which is now making its way through parliament, will constitute a threat to Israeli democracy, the protesters said. Thousands of protesters carried the blue and white Israeli flag as well as the rainbow flag representing the LGBTQ community at Tel Aviv's Dizengoff plaza on Saturday.&nbsp;When they marched through the city's centre, the protesters halted traffic. "Save Democracy!" shouted one poster held up by the mob.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gop-silence-is-deafening-vivek-ramaswamy-calls-for-support-against-trumps-possible-indictment-573479">US Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy calls for support against Trump's possible indictment</a>

Over 100 towns and cities, including Haifa, Jerusalem, and Beersheba, saw protests. Netanyahu, who is on trial for a corruption accusation that he denies, has been accused by the reforms' detractors of seeking to use the judicial reforms to thwart any judgements against himself. However, the prime minister refuted all such claims.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-swords-indian-jewelry-trump-failed-to-disclose-300000-foreign-gifts-says-house-democrats-report-573515">Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report</a>

President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday proposed a compromise but it was promptly rejected by the cabinet.&nbsp;

As per Herzog's outline, new Basic Laws, Israel's quasi-constitutional laws, are to be put on hold until the whole outline is put into effect. The plan also calls for no alteration in the roles between the branches, the Attorney-General and legal adviser, and the judiciary.

In a joint press conference on Thursday, the leaders of the opposition parties displayed their support for Herzog's plan. "The offer is not perfect," said former premier Yair Lapid. "It is not what we wanted, but it is a fair compromise that allows us to live together."

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbais-air-pollution-aqi-continues-to-remain-poor-indian-city-witnesses-most-polluted-winters-573472">Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters</a>

On the other hand, Netanyahu called it a "unilateral compromise" and added that the "key points" of Herzog's outline "only perpetuate the existing situation and do not bring the required balance between the powers".

The ruling coalition, which is made up of extreme-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, claims the reforms are required to address an imbalance of power between elected officials and Israel's highest court. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

For the eleventh week in a row, Israelis demonstrated against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the proposed judicial reforms. Demonstrations were held in cities all across the country on Saturday as people protested the judicial overhaul they believe would give politicians more control over the judiciary.

For the eleventh week in a row, Israelis demonstrated against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the proposed judicial reforms. Demonstrations were held in cities all across the country on Saturday as people protested the judicial overhaul they believe would give politicians more control over the judiciary. The overhaul, which is now making its way through parliament, will constitute a threat to Israeli democracy, the protesters said. Thousands of protesters carried the blue and white Israeli flag as well as the rainbow flag representing the LGBTQ community at Tel Aviv's Dizengoff plaza on Saturday. When they marched through the city's centre, the protesters halted traffic. "Save Democracy!" shouted one poster held up by the mob. Also Read | US Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy calls for support against Trump's possible indictment Over 100 towns and cities, including Haifa, Jerusalem, and Beersheba, saw protests. Netanyahu, who is on trial for a corruption accusation that he denies, has been accused by the reforms' detractors of seeking to use the judicial reforms to thwart any judgements against himself. However, the prime minister refuted all such claims. Also Read | Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday proposed a compromise but it was promptly rejected by the cabinet. As per Herzog's outline, new Basic Laws, Israel's quasi-constitutional laws, are to be put on hold until the whole outline is put into effect. The plan also calls for no alteration in the roles between the branches, the Attorney-General and legal adviser, and the judiciary. In a joint press conference on Thursday, the leaders of the opposition parties displayed their support for Herzog's plan. "The offer is not perfect," said former premier Yair Lapid. "It is not what we wanted, but it is a fair compromise that allows us to live together." Watch | Mumbai's air pollution: AQI continues to remain poor, Indian city witnesses most polluted winters On the other hand, Netanyahu called it a "unilateral compromise" and added that the "key points" of Herzog's outline "only perpetuate the existing situation and do not bring the required balance between the powers". The ruling coalition, which is made up of extreme-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, claims the reforms are required to address an imbalance of power between elected officials and Israel's highest court. (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.

Protests in Israel continue for 11th week after PM Netanyahu rejects President Herzog’s proposal

Protesters against the Israel government's judicial overhaul were planning to hold demonstrations in and around Tel Aviv Airport, in an effort to disrupt Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's flight to Germany on a state visit.

Israeli PM Netanyahu to travel to Germany as anti-govt protesters plan disruptions | WION Dispatch

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Israel protests against judicial reforms

Tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the Israeli parliament or the Knesset, on Monday (February 20) for a second straight week as lawmakers prepared to hold the first vote over the controversial plan proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Over the weekend, mass demonstrations across the country against the proposed judicial overhaul entered their sixth week. In a statement, the Israeli PM accused the leaders of these protests of ‘trampling democracy’ and vowed that his government will move forward to vote on the proposed reforms.&nbsp; 
 
On Monday, the first bill which seeks to amend the Basic Law would cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review Basic Laws, reported the Times of Israel. Since Israel does not have a written constitution and is governed by these Basic Laws, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remains weak.&nbsp;The ruling government typically which holds a majority in the parliament, in this case, Netanyahu's party has the most power.

What we know so far 
 
If passed, the controversial proposed judicial reforms would give the Israeli government greater control over the country’s judiciary, including the appointment of judges as well as&nbsp;weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across the country. Several polls over the past weeks have shown that Israeli citizens including Netanyahu supporters either want the decision on the reforms to slow down or be shelved completely.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-protests-outside-parliament-over-proposed-reforms-president-warns-of-constitutional-collapse-561639">Israel: Protests outside parliament over proposed reforms; president warns of ‘constitutional collapse'</a>

Critics of the judicial reforms have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. They also reportedly fear that the overhaul will allow Netanyahu to dodge the corruption charges against him, who has since denied any wrongdoing and called himself a victim of a biased judicial system.&nbsp; 
 
Last week in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together. On the other hand, on Sunday, the Israeli PM dismissed suggestions that the country’s democracy was under threat and said, “Israel was and will remain a strong and vibrant democracy.”&nbsp;

Israeli PM Netanyahu’s remarks

“They do not accept the outcome of the election, they do not accept the majority’s decision, they do not condemn calls to kill the prime minister and his family, they block roads and call for civil disobedience, they call without shame for a civil war and for blood in the streets, they threaten Knesset members aggressively,” said Netanyahu, ahead of his Likud Party’s weekly meeting, on Monday, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-thousands-in-israel-protest-against-new-governments-proposed-legal-reforms-550442">Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms</a>

He added, “The people exercised their right to vote in the elections and the people’s representatives will exercise their right to vote here in Israel’s Knesset. It’s called democracy. Today there will be a vote, and tomorrow I hope the path will be opened to dialogue.” &nbsp;

According to media reports, the Israeli PM’s statement was also made after a member of his party was prevented from taking her special-needs daughter to school. This comes as protesters took to the streets ahead of the first vote on the judicial overhaul and&nbsp;blocked&nbsp;major streets and even prevented lawmakers from leaving their homes.&nbsp;

“You talk above our heads in high terms of values, the rights of minorities and individuals, while they are trampling to dust the rights of a girl with special needs and the rights of an elected representative,” said Netanyahu, referring to the incident, as per the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-take-to-streets-in-jerusalem-over-judicial-reform-bills-564078">Thousands take to streets in Jerusalem over judicial reform bills</a>

He also accused the demonstrators of inciting violence and ignoring the will of the people who voted him and his government into power&nbsp;and said, “Demonstrators who talk about democracy are themselves bringing about the end of democracy when they deny elected delegates the fundamental right in a democracy - to vote”.&nbsp;

Subsequently, Netanyahu also went on to criticise the attorney general who has reportedly barred him from speaking about the reforms due to his conflict of interest agreement, as he is facing charges of corruption. “This is what the new Israeli democracy looks like: Do not respect the majority, try to block votes, do not allow speech. So I say, enough with this theatre of the absurd.”&nbsp;

Protests in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

Thousands of people poured into Jerusalem&nbsp;from across the country on Monday to join the demonstrations outside the parliament. So far, the police have arrested eight people for disorderly conduct and also worked to reroute traffic after protesters blocked the roads. “We are fighting for our children’s future, for our country’s future. We don’t intend to give up,” said opposition leader and former PM Yair Lapid addressing a meeting of his party in the Knesset while protests continued outside.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-protests-enter-sixth-week-protesters-claim-israels-democracy-at-stake-563671">Israel: Protests enter sixth week, protesters claim Israel's democracy at stake</a>

Furthermore, while the Israeli PM assures that the country will remain a “vibrant democracy” the protesters say otherwise. “We’re here to demonstrate for the democracy. Without democracy there’s no state of Israel. And we’re going to fight till the end,” said Marcos Fainstein, a protester in Tel Aviv, to the Associated Press.&nbsp;Earlier today, demonstrators also&nbsp;briefly halted traffic on Tel Aviv’s main highway while hundreds&nbsp;across the city waved&nbsp;Israeli flags.&nbsp; 
 
Demonstrators block lawmakers' houses

According to local media reports, on Monday morning protestors gathered outside the homes of lawmakers from Netanyahu’s coalition, in a bid to stop them from reaching the Knesset and voting. This included Likud MK (Member of Knesset) Tally Gotliv from leaving her house with her daughter who is autistic to school. However, citing a video from the lawmaker’s building, Jerusalem Post claims that she was asked by the protesters to find someone else to do it because she isn’t leaving the house.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-accuses-arch-rival-iran-of-attacking-an-israeli-linked-tanker-563735">Benjamin Netanyahu blames Iran for attacking an Israeli-linked tanker</a>

This drew condemnation from the leader of the opposition who called it a “siege” at the Gotliv’s home and said “a mother of a girl with special needs, and the fact that they didn't allow her to take her daughter to school…This isn’t our way. This is not the way of the protest. I send Tally strength and a hug for her daughter,” reported the Jerusalem Post. At least four lawmakers are said to have face this hindrance including Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Legislation Committee Chairman MK Simcha Rothman, and Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter.

What happened in the Knesset on Monday?

The vote, on Monday&nbsp;was just the first of three readings required for parliamentary approval and the process is expected to take months. Notably, the Netanyahu government holds 64 of the Knesset’s 120 seats. The Legislation Committee Chairman Rothman presented the proposal to the Knesset amid the ongoing stormy debate inside the parliament while protests raged outside.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-killed-after-israeli-missile-strikes-syrian-building-563540">Syria: At least 15 killed as Israeli missile strikes building in Damascus</a> 
&nbsp; 
According to a report by Times of Israel, as the plenum on Monday began several MKs from the opposition raised Israeli flags in protest. Subsequently, parliamentary ushers confiscated the flags and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana ordered the opposition lawmakers’ removal. Reportedly, a number of observers in the viewer’s gallery also began banging loudly on the glass dividers until removed. Notably, prior to entering the parliament, several MKs left the building after the security said that they must have their bags searched before entering which also prompted some objections.&nbsp; 
 
This was followed by a&nbsp;nearly seven-hour debate after which the bill passed with a vote of&nbsp;63-47. Subsequently, opposition&nbsp;lawmakers chanted “shame!” after the ruling coalition government&nbsp;passed the&nbsp;bill through the initial reading at the&nbsp;Knesset, reported Times of Israel. The bills now would now need&nbsp;to return to the committee for revisions after which they will go through two more readings in the parliament before becoming law.&nbsp;

Notable reactions from the current and former Israeli PMs&nbsp;

After the vote, incumbent PM&nbsp;Netanyahu took to Twitter and wrote, "A great night and a great day". 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
לילה גדול ויום גדול 
🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1627804582934978560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On the other hand, former PM Lapid who also took to the microblogging platform&nbsp;said, "Members of the coalition — history will judge you for tonight. For the damage to democracy, for the damage to the economy, for the damage to security, for you tearing apart the nation of Israel and that you just don’t care.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
חברי הקואליציה - ההיסטוריה תשפוט אתכם על הלילה הזה. על הפגיעה בדמוקרטיה, על הפגיעה בכלכלה, על הפגיעה בבטחון, על זה שאתם קורעים לגזרים את עם ישראל ופשוט לא אכפת לכם.
— יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) <a href="https://twitter.com/yairlapid/status/1627799988620099584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the Israeli parliament or the Knesset, on Monday (February 20) for a second straight week as lawmakers prepared to hold the first vote over the controversial plan proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

Tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the Israeli parliament or the Knesset, on Monday (February 20) for a second straight week as lawmakers prepared to hold the first vote over the controversial plan proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Over the weekend, mass demonstrations across the country against the proposed judicial overhaul entered their sixth week. In a statement, the Israeli PM accused the leaders of these protests of ‘trampling democracy’ and vowed that his government will move forward to vote on the proposed reforms. On Monday, the first bill which seeks to amend the Basic Law would cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review Basic Laws, reported the Times of Israel. Since Israel does not have a written constitution and is governed by these Basic Laws, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remains weak. The ruling government typically which holds a majority in the parliament, in this case, Netanyahu's party has the most power. What we know so far If passed, the controversial proposed judicial reforms would give the Israeli government greater control over the country’s judiciary, including the appointment of judges as well as weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across the country. Several polls over the past weeks have shown that Israeli citizens including Netanyahu supporters either want the decision on the reforms to slow down or be shelved completely. ALSO READ | Israel: Protests outside parliament over proposed reforms; president warns of ‘constitutional collapse' Critics of the judicial reforms have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. They also reportedly fear that the overhaul will allow Netanyahu to dodge the corruption charges against him, who has since denied any wrongdoing and called himself a victim of a biased judicial system. Last week in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together. On the other hand, on Sunday, the Israeli PM dismissed suggestions that the country’s democracy was under threat and said, “Israel was and will remain a strong and vibrant democracy.” Israeli PM Netanyahu’s remarks “They do not accept the outcome of the election, they do not accept the majority’s decision, they do not condemn calls to kill the prime minister and his family, they block roads and call for civil disobedience, they call without shame for a civil war and for blood in the streets, they threaten Knesset members aggressively,” said Netanyahu, ahead of his Likud Party’s weekly meeting, on Monday, as per local media reports. ALSO READ | Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms He added, “The people exercised their right to vote in the elections and the people’s representatives will exercise their right to vote here in Israel’s Knesset. It’s called democracy. Today there will be a vote, and tomorrow I hope the path will be opened to dialogue.” According to media reports, the Israeli PM’s statement was also made after a member of his party was prevented from taking her special-needs daughter to school. This comes as protesters took to the streets ahead of the first vote on the judicial overhaul and blocked major streets and even prevented lawmakers from leaving their homes. “You talk above our heads in high terms of values, the rights of minorities and individuals, while they are trampling to dust the rights of a girl with special needs and the rights of an elected representative,” said Netanyahu, referring to the incident, as per the Jerusalem Post. ALSO WATCH | Thousands take to streets in Jerusalem over judicial reform bills He also accused the demonstrators of inciting violence and ignoring the will of the people who voted him and his government into power and said, “Demonstrators who talk about democracy are themselves bringing about the end of democracy when they deny elected delegates the fundamental right in a democracy - to vote”. Subsequently, Netanyahu also went on to criticise the attorney general who has reportedly barred him from speaking about the reforms due to his conflict of interest agreement, as he is facing charges of corruption. “This is what the new Israeli democracy looks like: Do not respect the majority, try to block votes, do not allow speech. So I say, enough with this theatre of the absurd.” Protests in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv Thousands of people poured into Jerusalem from across the country on Monday to join the demonstrations outside the parliament. So far, the police have arrested eight people for disorderly conduct and also worked to reroute traffic after protesters blocked the roads. “We are fighting for our children’s future, for our country’s future. We don’t intend to give up,” said opposition leader and former PM Yair Lapid addressing a meeting of his party in the Knesset while protests continued outside. ALSO WATCH | Israel: Protests enter sixth week, protesters claim Israel's democracy at stake Furthermore, while the Israeli PM assures that the country will remain a “vibrant democracy” the protesters say otherwise. “We’re here to demonstrate for the democracy. Without democracy there’s no state of Israel. And we’re going to fight till the end,” said Marcos Fainstein, a protester in Tel Aviv, to the Associated Press. Earlier today, demonstrators also briefly halted traffic on Tel Aviv’s main highway while hundreds across the city waved Israeli flags. Demonstrators block lawmakers' houses According to local media reports, on Monday morning protestors gathered outside the homes of lawmakers from Netanyahu’s coalition, in a bid to stop them from reaching the Knesset and voting. This included Likud MK (Member of Knesset) Tally Gotliv from leaving her house with her daughter who is autistic to school. However, citing a video from the lawmaker’s building, Jerusalem Post claims that she was asked by the protesters to find someone else to do it because she isn’t leaving the house. ALSO READ | Benjamin Netanyahu blames Iran for attacking an Israeli-linked tanker This drew condemnation from the leader of the opposition who called it a “siege” at the Gotliv’s home and said “a mother of a girl with special needs, and the fact that they didn't allow her to take her daughter to school…This isn’t our way. This is not the way of the protest. I send Tally strength and a hug for her daughter,” reported the Jerusalem Post. At least four lawmakers are said to have face this hindrance including Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Legislation Committee Chairman MK Simcha Rothman, and Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter. What happened in the Knesset on Monday? The vote, on Monday was just the first of three readings required for parliamentary approval and the process is expected to take months. Notably, the Netanyahu government holds 64 of the Knesset’s 120 seats. The Legislation Committee Chairman Rothman presented the proposal to the Knesset amid the ongoing stormy debate inside the parliament while protests raged outside. ALSO READ | Syria: At least 15 killed as Israeli missile strikes building in Damascus According to a report by Times of Israel, as the plenum on Monday began several MKs from the opposition raised Israeli flags in protest. Subsequently, parliamentary ushers confiscated the flags and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana ordered the opposition lawmakers’ removal. Reportedly, a number of observers in the viewer’s gallery also began banging loudly on the glass dividers until removed. Notably, prior to entering the parliament, several MKs left the building after the security said that they must have their bags searched before entering which also prompted some objections. This was followed by a nearly seven-hour debate after which the bill passed with a vote of 63-47. Subsequently, opposition lawmakers chanted “shame!” after the ruling coalition government passed the bill through the initial reading at the Knesset, reported Times of Israel. The bills now would now need to return to the committee for revisions after which they will go through two more readings in the parliament before becoming law. Notable reactions from the current and former Israeli PMs After the vote, incumbent PM Netanyahu took to Twitter and wrote, "A great night and a great day". לילה גדול ויום גדול 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) February 20, 2023 × On the other hand, former PM Lapid who also took to the microblogging platform said, "Members of the coalition — history will judge you for tonight. For the damage to democracy, for the damage to the economy, for the damage to security, for you tearing apart the nation of Israel and that you just don’t care.” חברי הקואליציה - ההיסטוריה תשפוט אתכם על הלילה הזה. על הפגיעה בדמוקרטיה, על הפגיעה בכלכלה, על הפגיעה בבטחון, על זה שאתם קורעים לגזרים את עם ישראל ופשוט לא אכפת לכם. — יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) February 20, 2023 × (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Israel: Netanyahu govt's controversial legal plan passes first reading amid protests

Protests in Israel against the government's contentious judicial reforms are continuing unabated. They have now entered the sixth week and are growing stronger as the government shows no signs of rolling them back.

Israel: Protests enter sixth week, protesters claim Israel's democracy at stake

The United States ambassador to Israel Tom Nides said that Prime Minister Netanyahu should slow down the progress on the controversial judicial overhaul which has sparked protests for weeks.

The United States ambassador to Israel Tom Nides said that Prime Minister Netanyahu should slow down the progress on the controversial judicial overhaul which has sparked protests for weeks. Speaking to the CNN podcast "The Axe Files" on Saturday (February 18), Nides said, "We're telling the Prime Minister, as I tell my kids, pump the brakes, slow down, try to get a consensus, bring the parties together." Nides emphasised that Israel had America's support on security and at the United Nations. ALSO READ | Israeli PM Netanyahu vows action against Palestinian attackers; police seal Jerusalem attacker’s home However, the US envoy also said that Prime Minister Netanyahu's hope of forging diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia or dealing with Iran's nuclear programme was at stake. "The Prime Minister wants to do big things, okay? He tells us he wants to do big things. I said to him, to the prime minister, a hundred times, we can't spend time with things we want to work on together if your backyard's on fire," Nides said during the podcast. 'You pump the breaks': Israeli minister to US envoy Israeli PM Netanyahu did not immediately comment on Tom Nides' remarks but the country's Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli told the US envoy to mind his own business. Speaking to public broadcaster Ken, Chikli said "I tell the American ambassador, you pump the brakes. Mind your own business. You are not sovereign here to discuss judicial reforms. We're happy to discuss diplomatic and security matters with you but respect our democracy," the news agency Reuters reported. The protests in Israel against the government's controversial legal reforms continue. On Saturday night, tens of thousands of protesters returned to the streets to oppose the plan to overhaul the country's court system. They are against the reforms that Prime Minister Netanyahu and his allies hope to pass that would limit the Supreme Court's powers to rule against the legislature and the executive while giving lawmakers decisive powers in appointing judges. Netanyahu said the changes are needed to restore the balance between the government, the Knesset and the judiciary On Saturday, Israel's Justice Minister Yariv Levin told Channel 13 that he was determined to complete the legislation, adding "I don't think it's right to manage a country with threats and dictations from the street." (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.

'Pump the breaks, slow down': US envoy tells Israeli PM on judicial changes; Jerusalem hits back

According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary. Meanwhile, in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knesset Constitution Committee voted to send the first chapter of the proposal for the first reading which sparked chaos in the parliament. During the reading, several lawmakers were removed from the parliament to shouts of “shame, shame”, while others exchanged calls of “fascist” and “traitor”, as per Reuters, some were even seen crying inside the Knesset and singing protest folk songs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-thousands-in-israel-protest-against-new-governments-proposed-legal-reforms-550442">Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms</a>

At the same time, thousands had gathered outside the parliament in protest while demonstrations were also witnessed across the country, as per media reports. The controversial proposed judicial reforms would give Netanyahu greater control over the country’s judiciary including the appointment of judges and weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across Israel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-launches-air-strikes-against-underground-hamas-rocket-factory-in-gaza-561298">Israel launches air strikes against underground Hamas rocket factory in Gaza</a>

In a rare intervention, Herzog in a televised speech, late Sunday, called for all sides to come to a consensus on the matter saying that these plans have left Israel on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse”. He added, “I feel - we all feel - that we are barely a moment away from a collision, and even from a violent collision.”

Meanwhile, the Israeli PM who is on trial for corruption charges but has since denied any wrongdoing, in a statement called on the heads of the opposition to “stop deliberately dragging the country into anarchy” and how most citizens do not want anarchy but want a “substantive discourse” and unity. A poll conducted by Israel's public broadcaster Kan, published on Sunday shows that only 28 per cent of Israelis support the judicial reform while 50 per cent have opposed it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-pm-netanyahu-vows-action-against-palestinian-attackers-police-seal-jerusalem-attackers-home-561248">Israeli PM Netanyahu vows action against Palestinian attackers; police seal Jerusalem attacker’s home</a>

The critics of the proposal have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. However, it is not just the parliamentary opposition but Israel’s banks and the technology sector that have also warned about how these proposals can isolate the country internationally and affect economic prosperity.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary.

According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary. Meanwhile, in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together. Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knesset Constitution Committee voted to send the first chapter of the proposal for the first reading which sparked chaos in the parliament. During the reading, several lawmakers were removed from the parliament to shouts of “shame, shame”, while others exchanged calls of “fascist” and “traitor”, as per Reuters, some were even seen crying inside the Knesset and singing protest folk songs. ALSO READ | Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms At the same time, thousands had gathered outside the parliament in protest while demonstrations were also witnessed across the country, as per media reports. The controversial proposed judicial reforms would give Netanyahu greater control over the country’s judiciary including the appointment of judges and weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across Israel. ALSO READ | Israel launches air strikes against underground Hamas rocket factory in Gaza In a rare intervention, Herzog in a televised speech, late Sunday, called for all sides to come to a consensus on the matter saying that these plans have left Israel on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse”. He added, “I feel - we all feel - that we are barely a moment away from a collision, and even from a violent collision.” Meanwhile, the Israeli PM who is on trial for corruption charges but has since denied any wrongdoing, in a statement called on the heads of the opposition to “stop deliberately dragging the country into anarchy” and how most citizens do not want anarchy but want a “substantive discourse” and unity. A poll conducted by Israel's public broadcaster Kan, published on Sunday shows that only 28 per cent of Israelis support the judicial reform while 50 per cent have opposed it. ALSO READ | Israeli PM Netanyahu vows action against Palestinian attackers; police seal Jerusalem attacker’s home The critics of the proposal have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. However, it is not just the parliamentary opposition but Israel’s banks and the technology sector that have also warned about how these proposals can isolate the country internationally and affect economic prosperity. (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.

Israel: Protests outside parliament over proposed reforms; president warns of ‘constitutional collapse'

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets in Israel against the government's planned judicial overhaul. Multiple Opposition leaders took part in the protests that were organised in cities across Israel.

Israel: Mega protests against proposed judicial reforms rock Tel Aviv

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

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-slams-latest-un-vote-on-palestine-as-moral-decay-of-world-body-548253">Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body</a>

“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;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christian-graves-vandalised-in-jerusalem-cemetery-549451">Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery, Israeli cops launch probe</a>

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;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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

Thousands of Israeli nationals rallied outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Jerusalem residence Saturday to protest against his policies.

The protests are being held days before a general election that could see the long-standing leader removed from power.

Netanyahu's detractors accuse him of corruption and say his management made the coronavirus pandemic worse in view of protracted lockdowns, and battered the economy.

Waving flags including the Israeli blue-and-white, protesters led by a young man with a bullhorn chanted "Bibi go home", using the prime minister's nickname.

They also held up signs carrying a broad range of messages, from the need for a leadership "revolution" to mistrust in the police.

Netanyahu was the first Israeli premier to be indicted in office for corruption when he was formally charged last year in three cases over claims he accepted improper gifts and sought to trade regulatory favour with media moguls in exchange for positive coverage.

The combative premier denies wrongdoing and claims he is the victim of a witch-hunt, but he would be forced to resign if convicted with all appeals exhausted.

First launched in June last year, the vocal and colourful demonstrations against Netanyahu have gained momentum over the past 38 weeks, with Saturday night's rally -- the 39th -- the largest in recent months.

Final pre-election opinion polls broadcast on television Friday night showed that Netanyahu's Likud party and its hawkish, religious allies were tied for a majority with those seeking to replace the premier.

His campaign has sought to take credit for Israel's coronavirus vaccination drive, which is the envy of many nations.

Netanyahu has been in power for a record 12 consecutive years, and hopes to remain in office following Israel's fourth election in less than two years on March 23.

The prime minister also hopes for a boost from having clinched historic normalisation ties with four Arab countries -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan.

(with inputs)

Thousands of Israeli nationals rallied outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Jerusalem residence Saturday to protest against his policies. The protests are being held days before a general election that could see the long-standing leader removed from power.

Thousands of Israeli nationals rallied outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Jerusalem residence Saturday to protest against his policies. The protests are being held days before a general election that could see the long-standing leader removed from power. Netanyahu's detractors accuse him of corruption and say his management made the coronavirus pandemic worse in view of protracted lockdowns, and battered the economy. Waving flags including the Israeli blue-and-white, protesters led by a young man with a bullhorn chanted "Bibi go home", using the prime minister's nickname. They also held up signs carrying a broad range of messages, from the need for a leadership "revolution" to mistrust in the police. Netanyahu was the first Israeli premier to be indicted in office for corruption when he was formally charged last year in three cases over claims he accepted improper gifts and sought to trade regulatory favour with media moguls in exchange for positive coverage. The combative premier denies wrongdoing and claims he is the victim of a witch-hunt, but he would be forced to resign if convicted with all appeals exhausted. First launched in June last year, the vocal and colourful demonstrations against Netanyahu have gained momentum over the past 38 weeks, with Saturday night's rally -- the 39th -- the largest in recent months. Final pre-election opinion polls broadcast on television Friday night showed that Netanyahu's Likud party and its hawkish, religious allies were tied for a majority with those seeking to replace the premier. His campaign has sought to take credit for Israel's coronavirus vaccination drive, which is the envy of many nations. Netanyahu has been in power for a record 12 consecutive years, and hopes to remain in office following Israel's fourth election in less than two years on March 23. The prime minister also hopes for a boost from having clinched historic normalisation ties with four Arab countries -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan. (with inputs)

Thousands rally at anti-Netanyahu protest ahead of election

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic.

Several protests were observed in&nbsp;Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules.

The locals are angry that the government has initiated another lockdown without any financial aid for those running their own businesses, which is negatively affecting them. The police has not stated an estimate number of the participants of these protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-passes-legislation-to-ban-mass-protests-during-lockdown-331570">Also read:&nbsp;Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown</a>

These protests have come after the Parliament imposed a law that restricts the number of participants in a public agthering/protest. While the Parliament and the government claims it is to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, locals feels it is yet another way to silence all voices against&nbsp;Netanyahu.

This blowout of protests amplified after the&nbsp;Tourism Minister Asaf Zamir quit the&nbsp;coalition government and alleged the Prime Minister of being more concerned about his ongoing corruption trial, rather than saving his people from the ongoing pandemic.

"I am not willing to put up for another minute with a reality in which the right to demonstrate is restricted," he wrote. "Therefore I must follow my conscience."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-observes-protests-after-second-lockdown-without-economic-aid-is-initiated-330563">Also read:&nbsp;Israel observes protests after second lockdown without economic aid is initiated</a>

While the party leader&nbsp;Benny Gantz found an immediate replacement for Zamir, he also stated that him and his colleagues "joined the government to rein in the coronavirus, not to curb democracy or the rule of law."

While the Jerusalem media claimed that nearly 2,000 people protested outside the PM's official residence, the police has not issued any statement on the number of participants or arrests made. They have just claimed to have arrested "hundreds" of participants for flouting the social distancing rules.

With over 260,000 coronavirus infections confirmed so far and over 1,600 deaths in a population of nine million, Israel currently has the world's highest weekly infection rate per capita.

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic. Several protests were observed in Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules.

Israelis are continuing anti-lockdown protests and are opposing the way the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has handled the pandemic. Several protests were observed in Tel Aviv on Saturday where the protestors were spotted wearing face masks, but the local police claimed the participants were intentionally flouting all social distancing rules. The locals are angry that the government has initiated another lockdown without any financial aid for those running their own businesses, which is negatively affecting them. The police has not stated an estimate number of the participants of these protests. Also read: Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown These protests have come after the Parliament imposed a law that restricts the number of participants in a public agthering/protest. While the Parliament and the government claims it is to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, locals feels it is yet another way to silence all voices against Netanyahu. This blowout of protests amplified after the Tourism Minister Asaf Zamir quit the coalition government and alleged the Prime Minister of being more concerned about his ongoing corruption trial, rather than saving his people from the ongoing pandemic. "I am not willing to put up for another minute with a reality in which the right to demonstrate is restricted," he wrote. "Therefore I must follow my conscience." Also read: Israel observes protests after second lockdown without economic aid is initiated While the party leader Benny Gantz found an immediate replacement for Zamir, he also stated that him and his colleagues "joined the government to rein in the coronavirus, not to curb democracy or the rule of law." While the Jerusalem media claimed that nearly 2,000 people protested outside the PM's official residence, the police has not issued any statement on the number of participants or arrests made. They have just claimed to have arrested "hundreds" of participants for flouting the social distancing rules. With over 260,000 coronavirus infections confirmed so far and over 1,600 deaths in a population of nine million, Israel currently has the world's highest weekly infection rate per capita.

Israel continues protesting against Netanyahu's coronavirus restrictions

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned.

Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.6 miles) of their homes.

This rule comes in the aftermath of weeks, in which thousands of people gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official residence in Jerusalem to demand he resigned over corruption allegations and his handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-restricts-protests-during-lockdown-331574/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Netanyahu has, however, denied any wrongdoing.

And the protests have continued despite a dramatic resurgence of coronavirus cases in the country.

The protests have just not been unsafe for the prime minister, but have also risked the lives of so many people. An entire democracy continues to suffer.

Israel has reported more than 237,000 coronavirus cases and 1,528 deaths, and by passing the law, it has set a benchmark for democracies worldwide.

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned. Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.

Israel's parliament has passed a new law according to which mass protests during the country's second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be banned. Demonstrators will be confined to groups of up to 20 people and must stay within 1 km (0.6 miles) of their homes. This rule comes in the aftermath of weeks, in which thousands of people gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official residence in Jerusalem to demand he resigned over corruption allegations and his handling of the pandemic. × Netanyahu has, however, denied any wrongdoing. And the protests have continued despite a dramatic resurgence of coronavirus cases in the country. The protests have just not been unsafe for the prime minister, but have also risked the lives of so many people. An entire democracy continues to suffer. Israel has reported more than 237,000 coronavirus cases and 1,528 deaths, and by passing the law, it has set a benchmark for democracies worldwide.

Israel passes legislation to ban mass protests during lockdown

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a second national coronavirus lockdown in the country during a TV news conference .

The Three-week lockdown will make Israel the first country to reimpose such stringent restrictions on a national scale. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fresh-protests-break-out-in-israel-against-nethanyahus-poor-handling-of-coronavirus-327123">Also read | Fresh protests break out in Israel against Nethanyahu's poor handling of coronavirus</a> 
 
"I know these steps are a heavy price for us all.These are not the holidays we are used to. We certainly won't be able to celebrate with our extended families," Netanyahu said.

"If we keep the rules, and I am confident in this, we will defeat the virus. I see the vaccine on the way, and I see the fast testing that is on the way," he added.

Israel currently has one of the worst coronavirus infection rates in the world per capita. 
 
Meanwhile, Yaakov Litzman, a minister in Israel government has resigned to protest against the restrictions that overlap with important Jewish festivals.

Despite early successes in stemming the virus spread, protests have broken out as cases have risen against Netanyahu and the government's handling of the pandemic.

Hundreds of demonstrators rallied again on Sunday to call for Netanyahu's resignation over his alleged graft offences and failure to manage the Covid-19 crisis.

They blocked roads to Ben Gurion airport, from where Netanyahu was due to fly to the United States to attend the signing of agreements to normalise ties with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

Israelis angry with the government over the rise in cases have cited the rapid reopening of businesses, with some arguing insufficient financial measures forced people back to work prematurely.

Others have said the reopening of schools and the country's increased testing capacity pushed up the number of positive cases.

Israel, with a population of nine million, has recorded 155,604 Covid-19 cases, including 1,119 deaths.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a second national coronavirus lockdown in the country during a TV news conference . The Three-week lockdown will make Israel the first country to reimpose such stringent restrictions on a national scale.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a second national coronavirus lockdown in the country during a TV news conference . The Three-week lockdown will make Israel the first country to reimpose such stringent restrictions on a national scale. Also read | Fresh protests break out in Israel against Nethanyahu's poor handling of coronavirus "I know these steps are a heavy price for us all.These are not the holidays we are used to. We certainly won't be able to celebrate with our extended families," Netanyahu said. "If we keep the rules, and I am confident in this, we will defeat the virus. I see the vaccine on the way, and I see the fast testing that is on the way," he added. Israel currently has one of the worst coronavirus infection rates in the world per capita. Meanwhile, Yaakov Litzman, a minister in Israel government has resigned to protest against the restrictions that overlap with important Jewish festivals. Despite early successes in stemming the virus spread, protests have broken out as cases have risen against Netanyahu and the government's handling of the pandemic. Hundreds of demonstrators rallied again on Sunday to call for Netanyahu's resignation over his alleged graft offences and failure to manage the Covid-19 crisis. They blocked roads to Ben Gurion airport, from where Netanyahu was due to fly to the United States to attend the signing of agreements to normalise ties with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Israelis angry with the government over the rise in cases have cited the rapid reopening of businesses, with some arguing insufficient financial measures forced people back to work prematurely. Others have said the reopening of schools and the country's increased testing capacity pushed up the number of positive cases. Israel, with a population of nine million, has recorded 155,604 Covid-19 cases, including 1,119 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel becomes first country in world to impose second national lockdown 

Thousands of Israelis marched towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Central Jerusalem asking him to step down from his position.

Israel: Protesters surround Netanyahu's house, demand resignation

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for Washington just after midnight Sunday, to attend a Tuesday ceremony at the White House

Israel: PM Netanyahu flies to Washington to sign historic peace deals

Thousands of Israelis protested against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem over his alleged corruption and the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Protests in Israel over COVID crisis: Unemployment spikes to over 20%

Thousands of&nbsp;Israelis took to streets outside the resident of&nbsp;the Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu, asking him to resign.&nbsp;

The locals are campaigning against the Prime Minister after corruption charges surrounded&nbsp;Netanyahu, and for his 'poor' handling of the novel coronavirus.

The country, which once reopened its economy completely, is now heading towards a lockdown during the upcoming Jewish New Year, as the number of coronavirus-related cases are on a record high.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/arab-artists-boycotting-uae-backed-awards-and-events-after-israel-deal-324873">Also read:&nbsp;Arab artists boycotting UAE-backed awards and events after Israel deal</a>

The protestors marched outside Nethanyahu's residence, a site which has seen several protests in the last few years, and chanted slogans that closely translated to a request for his resignation.

These protests came a day after Israel announced an agreement to establish diplomatic relations with Bahrain, the second Arab country to normalize ties with Israel in under a month and just the fourth overall. However, this announcement has had little to no impact on the Nethanyahu-critics who want him to resign and pay his price for the corruption cases associated with him.

People have accused him of poorly handling the pandemic crisis and poorer treatment of the medical services. Israel was, at one point, applauded for its quick action against the novel coronavirus. However, in order to save the economy from a downfall, Netanyahu re-opened the shops, malls, schools and offices, which led to a surge in cases and fresh lockdowns.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bahrain-to-establish-ties-with-israel-trump-announced-the-agreement-327045/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While this is a new controversy, he has been facing the wrath of protestors for more than a year now as&nbsp;Netanyahu has been charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes for his role in a series of scandals involving gifts and alleged favors exchanged with wealthy associates. All of these allegations have been decline by the Prime Minister, who has also faced impeachment threats.

Thousands of Israelis took to streets outside the resident of the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asking him to resign. The locals are campaigning against the Prime Minister after corruption charges surrounded Netanyahu, and for his 'poor' handling of the novel coronavirus.

Thousands of Israelis took to streets outside the resident of the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asking him to resign. The locals are campaigning against the Prime Minister after corruption charges surrounded Netanyahu, and for his 'poor' handling of the novel coronavirus. The country, which once reopened its economy completely, is now heading towards a lockdown during the upcoming Jewish New Year, as the number of coronavirus-related cases are on a record high. Also read: Arab artists boycotting UAE-backed awards and events after Israel deal The protestors marched outside Nethanyahu's residence, a site which has seen several protests in the last few years, and chanted slogans that closely translated to a request for his resignation. These protests came a day after Israel announced an agreement to establish diplomatic relations with Bahrain, the second Arab country to normalize ties with Israel in under a month and just the fourth overall. However, this announcement has had little to no impact on the Nethanyahu-critics who want him to resign and pay his price for the corruption cases associated with him. People have accused him of poorly handling the pandemic crisis and poorer treatment of the medical services. Israel was, at one point, applauded for its quick action against the novel coronavirus. However, in order to save the economy from a downfall, Netanyahu re-opened the shops, malls, schools and offices, which led to a surge in cases and fresh lockdowns. × While this is a new controversy, he has been facing the wrath of protestors for more than a year now as Netanyahu has been charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes for his role in a series of scandals involving gifts and alleged favors exchanged with wealthy associates. All of these allegations have been decline by the Prime Minister, who has also faced impeachment threats.

Fresh protests break out in Israel against Nethanyahu's poor handling of coronavirus

Thousands of Israelis demonstrate and observe a symbolic work stoppage to denounce sexual violence against women following the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl in a Red Sea resort.

Israelis protest sexual violence against women

Thousands of Israelis on Sunday observed a symbolic work stoppage to denounce sexual violence against women following the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl in a Red Sea resort.

The noon strike, which lasted around one hour, was "to protest the growing violence against women and girls in Israel, and lack of sufficient punishment", said the women group Bonot Alternativa.

One of the event's organisers, Ariel Peleg, told AFP at least 30 organisations and companies, including municipalities and Microsoft Israel, took part in the midday vigil.

Demonstrations will also take place in the evening throughout the country, with the main event to be held in Tel Aviv, Peleg said.

The "women's strike" was organised after reports emerged in recent days of the alleged rape of an inebriated teen girl by a group of men in a hotel in the Red Sea resort of Eilat.

The alleged crime triggered demonstrations in several Israeli cities on Thursday and was denounced by top leaders, including President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told AFP that 10 suspects, including nine minors, had been arrested in connection with the affair so far as part of an "ongoing investigation".&nbsp;

Thousands of Israelis on Sunday observed a symbolic work stoppage to denounce sexual violence against women following the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl in a Red Sea resort.

Thousands of Israelis on Sunday observed a symbolic work stoppage to denounce sexual violence against women following the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl in a Red Sea resort. The noon strike, which lasted around one hour, was "to protest the growing violence against women and girls in Israel, and lack of sufficient punishment", said the women group Bonot Alternativa. One of the event's organisers, Ariel Peleg, told AFP at least 30 organisations and companies, including municipalities and Microsoft Israel, took part in the midday vigil. Demonstrations will also take place in the evening throughout the country, with the main event to be held in Tel Aviv, Peleg said. The "women's strike" was organised after reports emerged in recent days of the alleged rape of an inebriated teen girl by a group of men in a hotel in the Red Sea resort of Eilat. The alleged crime triggered demonstrations in several Israeli cities on Thursday and was denounced by top leaders, including President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld told AFP that 10 suspects, including nine minors, had been arrested in connection with the affair so far as part of an "ongoing investigation".

Israelis strike to protest sexual violence against women

Thousands of protesters rallied in Jerusalem on Saturday demanding the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, chanting "Minister of Crime", "You're fired" and "Free Israel".

The demonstrators, some playing musical instruments, gathered in front of the premier's official residence. Local media estimated the crowd at around 10,000.

Protests demanding that Netanyahu resign over several corruption indictments and his handling of the coronavirus crisis have been mounting in recent weeks and the premier has been scathing in his counter-attack.

Earlier this month, he accused Channel 12 and another private station, Channel 13, of "delivering propaganda for the anarchist left-wing demonstrations" by giving extensive coverage of the rallies.

Israel won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April. Netanyahu has himself acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly.

Thousands of protesters rallied in Jerusalem on Saturday demanding the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, chanting "Minister of Crime", "You're fired" and "Free Israel".

Thousands of protesters rallied in Jerusalem on Saturday demanding the resignation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, chanting "Minister of Crime", "You're fired" and "Free Israel". The demonstrators, some playing musical instruments, gathered in front of the premier's official residence. Local media estimated the crowd at around 10,000. Protests demanding that Netanyahu resign over several corruption indictments and his handling of the coronavirus crisis have been mounting in recent weeks and the premier has been scathing in his counter-attack. Earlier this month, he accused Channel 12 and another private station, Channel 13, of "delivering propaganda for the anarchist left-wing demonstrations" by giving extensive coverage of the rallies. Israel won praise for its initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the government has come under criticism amid a resurgence in cases after restrictions were lifted starting in late April. Netanyahu has himself acknowledged that the economy was re-opened too quickly.

Israeli protesters stage fresh anti-Netanyahu protest

Thousands of demonstrators have gathered outside the official residence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and thronged the streets of central Jerusalem

Israel: Angry protesters gather outside Netanyahu's residence; Demands PM's resignation

israel-protests

Israel Protests, News on Israel Protests, stories on Israel Protests, articles on Israel Protests, Israel Protests stories at Wion, Israel Protests news, Israel Protests latest news

israel protests