Israeli Parliament approves key part of Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul as Opposition exits chamber

Israeli lawmakers approve Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's divisive plan to reshape justice system, despite protests and U.S. concerns. Tensions high as vote reflects determination of Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right allies to move ahead. Critics fear it opens way for corruption and improper appointments; mass protests expected.

Israeli lawmakers on July 24 approved a key portion of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s divisive plan to reshape the country’s justice system despite massive protests that have exposed unprecedented fissures in Israeli society.

The vote came after a stormy session in which Opposition lawmakers chanted “shame” and then stormed out of the chamber.

The vote reflected the determination of Mr. Netanyahu and his far-right allies to move ahead with the plan, which has tested the delicate social ties that bind the country, rattled the cohesion of its powerful military and repeatedly drawn concern from its closest ally, the United States.

In July 24 vote, lawmakers approved a measure that prevents judges from striking down government decisions on the basis that they are “unreasonable.”

Proponents say the current “reasonability” standard gives unelected judges excessive powers over decision-making by elected officials. But critics of the government says it removes a key element of the court's oversight powers and opens the way for corruption and improper appointments.

With the Opposition out of the hall, the measure passed by a 64-0 margin.

After the vote, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, the architect of the plan, said Parliament had taken “first step in an important historic process” of overhauling the judiciary.