A significant number of Israelis have taken to the streets in a mass demonstration to protest the government's attempt to weaken the power of judges. The protests began on Monday night when lawmakers moved forward with a crucial aspect of the proposed judicial overhaul. As a result of their actions, approximately 50 people have been arrested after blocking major roads.
The planned demonstrations have divided the country and alarmed foreign investors. Opponents of the government's plans are scheduled to convene later at Ben Gurion international airport, potentially leading to disruptions in car traffic in and out of the hub. Despite the protests, the police have made assurances that they will do their best to ensure that flights continue as per usual.
Thus far, the protests have not been without incident. Nine protesters and a police officer were treated for minor injuries related to the demonstrations, according to Israeli emergency services. The protests have even caused ambulances to be prevented from reaching local hospitals, resulting in delayed medical care for at least six patients.
The protest groups have been extremely vocal in their opposition, with one stating, "Last night, Israel became a country on the brink of dictatorship. This is a complete and total destruction of the state of Israel." However, Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu remains firm in his stance, making it clear that the coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not be swayed. He reiterated that they aim to change the judicial system gradually.
Eliyahu also urged the police to respond forcefully to the demonstrators, while Education Minister Yoav Kisch labeled them as "terrorists." The government, which is the most right-wing in Israel's history, argues that the judiciary has become excessively powerful and is politically skewed towards the left. However, opponents of the proposed changes encompass a wide range of Israelis, from tech entrepreneurs to military veterans, who argue that the overhaul could grant politicians unchecked powers.
Lawmakers recently gave initial approval to a bill that would prevent judges from blocking government decisions they consider "unreasonable." However, there are still two more rounds of voting required before it becomes law.
One of the main points of contention for the protesters is also the government's push to dismantle the Authority for the Advancement of the Status of Women. Some protestors have chosen to dress up as characters from Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, "The Handmaid's Tale," and have gathered at Ben Gurion airport with signs referencing the imaginary dictatorship of Gilead depicted in the novel.