Israel: Protest activity over judicial reform likely to continue through late August /update 10

Event

Additional protests and labor strikes will likely continue through at least August in response to the government's passing of the controversial judicial reform bill. Union groups carried out several strikes over the past month, causing severe disruptions across different sectors of the economy and suspending some flights at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) in Tel Aviv. Activists also continue to hold weekly protests on Saturdays in Tel Aviv and other major cities in Israel to denounce the new legislation.

Israel's Supreme Court has announced that it would review appeals against the new legislation Sept. 12. Future demonstrations will probably focus on traditionally popular protest sites across the country, such as prominent public squares, city centers, and government buildings. In Tel Aviv, popular protest locations 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. Demonstrators have been deliberately disruptive by blocking traffic on Ayalon Highway in Tel Aviv and other major thoroughfares nationwide. Confrontations can occur if protesters are overly disruptive or fail to comply with police instructions. Clashes between protesters and supporters of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have also occurred at demonstrations nationwide. Further similar incidents remain possible over the coming days and weeks.

Context

The new legislation allows the ruling alliance of parties in Israel's parliament, the Knesset, to override any Supreme Court ruling on a law's constitutionality with a simple majority. Critics maintain that the legislation severely undermines 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 changes would limit some of its powers. The debate and tensions surrounding the judicial overhaul 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.