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Update on Judicial Reform Debate in Israel

St. Paul Jewish Federation is committed to a strong and enduring State of Israel and its relationship with diaspora Jewry. Through Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and other resources, we monitor recent events causing deep divisions in Israel's civil society and potentially damaging relationships between Israel, its allies, and diaspora Jewry. We are providing this resource page to keep you informed and have a better understanding of the issues. 

We will update this page periodically. 

 

JFNA Open Letter to the Government

 

 

FAQ

 

What are the latest developments with the judicial reform proposals in Israel?
 

See here for an update from the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA).

 

What is the background to this issue? What are the reform proposals, and why have they been so controversial?
 

See here for background on the issue prepared by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA).

 

What is the middle ground in the debate that JFNA has been urging Israeli leaders to consider?
 

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has been working to reach an agreement between the two sides and has offered a compromise proposal as a basis for negotiations. Both sides are willing to engage in dialog but have also voiced reservations (see details here and background on possible compromises here.)

 

Why did JFNA send a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid?
 

On February 21, JFNA sent a Hebrew-language version of this letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid. Following the first reading of the draft legislation in the Knesset, the bill now returns to the committee for further debate and discussion. At this time, amendments to the account are typically made. Federations realize this is the most suitable time to urge all sides to reach a reasonable compromise.

 

Where can I learn more?
 

JFNA has compiled numerous resources on this issue and other subjects debated in the new Israeli government. See more here.

 

VIDEOS

 

 

Israel Elections 101 with Dani Wassner

Understanding the Impact of Israel's New Government with Dennis Ross

Prof. Suzie Navot Explains the Override Clause

 

STATEMENTS & RESOURCES

 

JFNA statement on Israel's incoming government

Jan 12, 2023 - Seven ex-top Israeli legal officials oppose Netanyahu's judicial reforms

Jan 25, 2023 - Bol chief warns Netanyahu of the economic risk of judicial changes

Jan 25, 2023 - Israel: Lawmakers attempt to quell economic fears on judicial reform

Jan 28, 2023 - Even Right-Wing Ideologues are Frightened by Netanyahu Government's Judicial Overhaul

Jan 31, 2023 - 50 former ministry chiefs warn judicial reform will hit the economy.

Jan 30, 2023 - Israeli High-tech Employees Protest Judiciary Overhaul for Second Consecutive Week

Feb 2, 2023 - An open letter to Israel's friends in North America

Feb 2, 2023 - After A-G orders against Netanyahu's involvement, is judicial reform dead? - analysis

Feb 3, 2023 - JPMorgan warns of the growing risk to investing in Israel due to judicial shakeup plans

Feb 3, 2023 - Macron warns Netanyahu over judicial overhaul, settlements

Feb 3, 2023 - Blinken gave Netanyahu a ladder for his gov't. Will he take it?

Feb 12, 2023 - Herzog warns of looming ''societal collapse'' and lays out a compromise on the legal overhaul.

Feb 13, 2023 - Tens of thousands rally at Knesset against overhaul: ''Worried for Israel's future.''

Feb 13, 2023 - After a mass rally, legal shakeup authors invite Lapid and Gantz to meet at Herzog office

Feb 16, 2023 - Over 90,000 gather in Israel's capital to protest judicial reform