ISRAEL

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Context

Israel's parliament, the Knesset, approves a bill that aims to limit the oversight powers of the Supreme Court.

Details

• Israel's parliament, the Knesset, has given initial approval to a bill limiting the oversight powers of the Supreme Court.
• The vote resulted in a 64 to 56 majority in favor of the limits, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right governing coalition overpowering the opposition.
• Anti-government protesters were forcibly removed from the building ahead of the vote, leading to a police complaint against them.

Background

• The bill is part of a controversial judicial overhaul initiated by Netanyahu's government.
• Opposition groups have raised concerns about the erosion of checks and balances within the government system.
• Months of demonstrations and a political crisis have ensued due to the opposition movement against Netanyahu's attempt to weaken the judiciary.

Protesters and Security Measures

• Anti-government protesters were forcibly dragged out of the building by parliament security.
• A police complaint was filed against the demonstrators for allegedly seeking to harm public order and the democratic process.
• The opposition movement against Netanyahu's judicial reforms led to widespread protests and heightened tensions.

Approval Process

• The bill still needs to pass two more votes before becoming law.
• Netanyahu's far-right governing coalition, with 64 seats in the parliament, appears likely to succeed in passing the bill.
• Protests are expected to intensify if the bill passes further votes.

Bill's Objectives

• The proposed bill aims to limit the Supreme Court's power to void decisions made by the government, ministers, and elected officials by ruling them unreasonable.
• Critics argue that such a law can lead to corruption and abuses of power.
• Proponents claim it will facilitate effective governance by reducing court intervention.

Reactions and Concerns

• Netanyahu released a video statement defending the bill, claiming that it strengthens democracy without harming court independence and civil rights.
• Opponents remain unconvinced and continue to voice their concerns.
• The sound of protesters rallying outside the Supreme Court could be heard nearby, with economic concerns being raised by the governor of the Bank of Israel.

Economic Impact

• The Governor of the Bank of Israel, Amir Yaron, called for broad agreements over judicial reforms to safeguard institutional independence, citing potential economic costs.
• Netanyahu downplayed the economic fallout and expressed impatience with ongoing demonstrations.

Call for Dialogue

• Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, urged the sides to resume talks to address the fundamental issues causing division in Israeli society.
• The collapse of compromise talks in June led to the coalition restarting legislation on judicial reforms.

About Israel

• Located in the Middle East, Israel is a small country with a diverse cultural and historical background.
• It shares borders with Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Israel has a population of approximately 9 million people, with Jerusalem as its capital.

Historical Background

• Israel has a rich history, with significant religious and cultural importance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
• The establishment of modern Israel dates back to 1948 when it gained independence following the end of the British Mandate in Palestine.
• The region has been a subject of various conflicts, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Arab-Israeli wars, and ongoing tensions in the region.

Governance and Politics

• Israel operates as a parliamentary democracy with a multi-party system.
• The President serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister holds executive powers as the head of government.
• The Knesset, Israel's parliament, consists of 120 seats and is responsible for enacting legislation.

Society and Culture

• Israeli society is diverse and reflects a blend of Jewish, Arab, and other ethnic and religious communities.
• Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages, and English is widely spoken.
• Israel is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including music, literature, art, and film.

Economy

• Israel has a developed and technologically advanced economy.
• Key sectors include high-tech industries, agriculture, defense, tourism, and diamond cutting.
• It has a strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, with many successful startups and technological advancements.

Security and Defense

• Israel faces security challenges due to its geopolitical location and historical conflicts.
• It maintains a strong defense force, including the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and security agencies to ensure national security.

Religious Significance

• Israel is considered a holy land for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
• It is home to religious sites such as the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
• Jerusalem, a city with deep religious and historical significance, is a focal point of religious pilgrimage and international attention.

International Relations

• Israel has complex relationships with neighboring countries and the international community.
• It has peace treaties with Egypt and Jordan but faces ongoing challenges with the Palestinian
• Israel maintains alliances and partnerships with various countries, particularly with the United States.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Israel faces ongoing challenges related to security, regional conflicts, and the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
• The pursuit of a peaceful and sustainable solution, economic development, and social cohesion are among the key priorities for the country.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q) Examine the challenges and opportunities faced by Israel in maintaining national security, fostering peaceful coexistence, and contributing to the global economy.(150 words)

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/10/protesters-dragged-out-of-israeli-parliament-before-key-vote