Israel Expands Politicians' Power Over Judicial Appointments

The Israeli Knesset has passed a controversial law that increases governmental control over judicial appointments, which critics argue undermines the independence of the judiciary and poses a threat to democracy. The legislation received a vote of 67-1, with opposition lawmakers boycotting the vote in protest. Supporters of the law, including Justice Minister Yariv Levin, claim it addresses conflicts of interest in the judicial selection process and restores balance between legislative and judicial powers. This judicial overhaul has reignited massive protests in Israel, which had previously subsided during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Opposition leaders have vowed to repeal the law in the next Knesset, arguing that it exacerbates divisions in the country and detracts from pressing national issues. The new law alters the composition of the committee responsible for selecting judges, reducing the influence of the Bar Association and increasing the role of politicians in the process.