Israel protests over judicial reforms, demonstrators scuffle with security forces

Publié le 21 mars 2023Mis à jour le 21 mars 2023

Protests in Israel against the planned judicial reforms have now entered their eleventh week. Demonstrators once again gathered in the city of Tel Aviv. Like every Saturday, this time too Israelis flocked the streets of Tel Aviv as part of nationwide demonstrations against the judicial overhaul. Waiving national flags, the demonstrators chanted slogans and marched across the streets.

Israeli forces could be seen pushing the protesters away in an effort to disperse. But protesters continued to showcase their disapproval. As the bill moves towards ratification—protests too are getting intensified. Protesters here also tried to block a highway at the site. This led to scuffle as police tried to clear off the protesters. Israeli media reported that tens of thousands of demonstrators turned out in more than 100 towns and cities, including Haifa, Jerusalem and Beersheba. The economy of the country is also taking a toll. Even some military reservists have also threatened to refuse service in protest.

The judicial bill seeks to curb the powers of supreme court in appointing judges and allows parliament to override its decisions. Netanyahu says that these reforms are needed to curb the overreaching powers of judges. But opponents claim that these laws threaten democracy of the country – and can open doors for corruption. Israel’s president has already raised alarm over the laws. He had appealed for the overhaul to be postp