Israel: Protest activity likely to decrease following government's March 27 decision to delay judicial overhaul plans /update 5

Event

Protest activity, including strikes, is likely to decrease in frequency and magnitude in Israel over the coming days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced late March 27 that he would delay his government's plans to overhaul the country's judiciary until the next Knesset (parliament) session begins in late April. Netanyahu's decision came after the country's largest labor union, the Histadrut, launched a general strike the same day. The labor action, which the Histadrut reportedly called off after Netanyahu's comments, threatened severe disruptions across different sectors of the economy and suspended some flights at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) in Tel Aviv.

Members of the ruling coalition have stated that Netanyahu and his allies will bring about the planned reforms through dialogue. While the protests and work stoppages will probably ebb over the coming days in response to Netanyahu's comments, they will nonetheless almost certainly continue unless the government is genuine about entering negotiations with political parties that are opposed to the proposed changes. Related protests have been occurring since January. They grew in scale and intensity after Netanyahu fired Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on March 26 over his objection to the reforms. The protest activity may continue through at least late April if opposing political parties fail to reach a consensus on a path forward vis-a-vis the judicial reform plans.

The loci of any additional demonstrations will likely be 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.