Israel Passes Law Changing Judicial Appointments Process

Israel's parliament has passed a controversial law that increases political influence over the judicial appointments process, including for the Supreme Court, sparking widespread protests and opposition boycotts. The bill, passed 67 to 1, reduces the role of judges and the Israel Bar Association in the Judicial Selection Committee, instead allowing politicians to have more control. Critics, including opposition leaders, argue that this undermines democracy by concentrating power in the hands of politicians, while proponents claim it reflects democratic values by aligning with practices in other democracies. The legislation is seen as part of a broader effort by Prime Minister Netanyahu's government to consolidate power amid ongoing anti-government demonstrations. The law introduces a new system where appointments require agreement from both coalition and opposition representatives, aiming to avoid deadlocks in appointments. However, the judiciary and opposition's reduced roles in the selection process have raised concerns about the erosion of checks and balances.