Israeli protesters attend an anti-government protest in Tel Aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpaThousands of people demonstrated again in Israel despite the government’s announced postponement of controversial judicial reforms.
The largest gathering of nationwide protests took place in Tel Aviv for the 13th consecutive Saturday.
“The government doesn’t want to reach an agreement, it just wants to buy time to implement a judicial coup,” organizers said.
They said it was the people’s responsibility to protect democracy, declaring that “this is the most critical moment since the foundation of the state”.
According to the statement, protest actions have been planned in around 150 locations across the country.
In Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and other cities, protesters blocked several streets, media reported. They waved Israeli flags.
Placards read: “Democracy is stronger than this government” or “Arrest Netanyahu”.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had postponed the controversial bill for a few weeks on Monday after massive protests and a general strike, in order to “make room for dialogue”.
Several talks between the ruling coalition and the opposition have taken place since Tuesday.
However, politicians from opposition parties have repeatedly questioned Netanyahu’s seriousness in reaching a compromise.
With judicial reform, Netanyahu’s far-right coalition is seeking to reduce the influence of the Supreme Court and expand the government’s power.
He accuses the court of excessive interference in political decisions.
In the future, parliament could overturn Supreme Court decisions by a simple majority under the proposed changes.
Critics see the separation of powers in danger and warn of a state crisis if the reform is implemented in this way.
Israeli protesters attend an anti-government protest in Tel Aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa
Israeli protesters attend an anti-government protest in Tel Aviv. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa
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