Anti-government demonstration in central Tel Aviv. Opponents of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government have been taking to the streets for nine weeks to express their disapproval of the proposed judicial reform. 4 Mar 2023.
Tel Aviv – Tens of thousands of people protested today in Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities against the controversial judicial reform. According to The Times of Israel news website, police detained three people as hundreds of protesters tried to stop traffic on the Ajalon Highway.
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Photo gallery: Demonstration against judicial reform in Israel
Opponents of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government have been taking to the streets for nine weeks to express their disapproval of the proposed judicial reform. It significantly limits the supervisory powers of the Supreme Court and strengthens political control over the appointment of judges. Critics point out that changes to the functioning of the Supreme Court would also be beneficial for the Prime Minister himself, who is facing charges of corruption.
Israeli company Crowd Solutions said about 160,000 people gathered at the main protest march in Tel Aviv, while thousands more took to the streets in other Israeli cities. According to earlier information from The Times of Israel, demonstrations were planned today in 95 locations across the country.
Right-wing National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called the demonstrators in Tel Aviv anarchists. According to Reuters, however, the evening protests in Tel Aviv and elsewhere were peaceful, unlike protests earlier this week that turned into violent clashes with police. Police used stun grenades at a protest in Tel Aviv on Wednesday.
Supporters of judicial reform say there is a need to limit the Supreme Court's interference in politics. Critics say the plan will weaken the courts, threaten civil liberties and damage the economy and relations with Western allies. In addition to the opposition, Israeli banks and the technology sector also issued warnings. According to them, the reform may threaten civil institutions that contribute to the country's prosperity.
