Jerusalem
Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz criticized Justice Minister Yariv Levin’s on Sunday, call to resume the controversial judicial overhaul program, which has deeply divided the nation. Gantz, head of the National Unity Party, labeled Levin’s push as responsible for the “disaster” that has divided Israel, fueling unrest, and contributing to the current crisis.
Levin’s comments followed an incident on Saturday night when flares were thrown at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s private residence in Caesarea. Levin reacted by calling for full backing to restore the justice system, citing growing violence and claims that elements within the country were trying to “dismantle” Israel.
Gantz, in a tweet, expressed his strong disapproval, saying, “The coup d’etat led by Yariv Levin tore us apart from the inside and is a large part of how we reached the tragedy of October 7.” He accused Levin of not learning from past mistakes, especially while the country was in the midst of a difficult war.
Gantz also condemned any form of violence related to protests, stating, “If it is protest activists behind the firing of light bombs, it should be called what it is – terrorism.” While critical of Netanyahu, Gantz emphasized that protests should remain lawful and not escalate into violence.
The judicial overhaul initiative, which was put on hold after the war broke out on October 7, proposed sweeping changes, including altering the process for appointing judges and limiting the power of the Supreme Court.
