Israel: Further anti-government demonstrations, strikes likely nationwide through late April /update 4

Event

Additional demonstrations and strikes opposing the government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remain likely through at least late April. Protests in the nation's major cities, including in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, have shown no signs of abating since they began in January. Hundreds of thousands of people have been gathering daily to condemn the government's plans to overhaul the country's judicial system. Demonstrators allege that the new governing coalition will endanger the country's democracy and undermine its civic institutions.

Strikes by labor organizations and professional associations have also begun to grow. Universities announced March 26 that they would begin an indefinite strike and would cease all classes. Additionally, demonstrators have started engaging in deliberately disruptive acts, primarily by blocking major thoroughfares, including Highway 20 (also known as Ayalon Highway) in Tel Aviv; Highway 20 is a major intracity freeway linking all the main roads leading to the city. Protesters have also attempted to cause disruptions at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) in recent days.

Protests have been particularly prevalent in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv on weekends and have typically drawn very large crowds. However, gatherings have also occurred on weekdays in cities nationwide. Future demonstrations could focus on traditionally popular protest sites, such as prominent public squares, city centers, and government buildings across the country. In Tel Aviv, popular protest sites include Rabin, Habima, and Dizengoff squares. In Jerusalem, demonstrations have occurred outside government ministries, near the Prime Minister's Office and residence, and at Ha-Shabat Square. Localized transport disruptions are likely near all protests.

Recent anti-government gatherings have also led to clashes between protesters and police. Such confrontations can occur if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to comply with police instructions. Clashes between protesters and Netanyahu supporters have also occurred at demonstrations nationwide. Further similar incidents remain possible over the coming days and weeks.

Context

The nationwide demonstrations are in opposition to a legal reform bill, which is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to equip the country's parliament, the Knesset, with the power to override Israel's Basic Laws and Supreme Court rulings. The legislation, which has passed a preliminary vote in the Knesset, would allow the ruling alliance of parties to override any law deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court with a simple majority.

Critics of the bill maintain that, if passed into law, it would severely undermine the powers of the Supreme Court and the nation's system of checks and balances. Supporters of the bill, on the other hand, have accused the Supreme Court of judicial activism and believe that the override clause would limit some of its powers. The debate and tensions surrounding the override clause come against the backdrop of Israel having no formal constitution. Since the nation was established in 1948, in lieu of a written constitution, the Knesset has passed a series of "basic laws".

Advice

Due to the potential for violence, avoid any demonstrations that may materialize. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Keep away from areas where security forces appear to be deploying. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Follow all police instructions.