1/4
July 23 (UPI) — The Israeli parliament commenced its debate on a contentious judicial reform bill on Sunday while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu undergoes a pacemaker procedure.
The judicial reform bill has been a focal point of demonstrations for several months. Protesters and opposition leaders are concerned that the proposed reforms, which grant the sitting government control over crucial judicial appointments, could endanger democracy.
Netanyahu and other supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to curb judicial overreach.
The debate on the bill is expected to last up to 26 hours to accommodate a large number of lawmakers, as reported by CNN. A final vote could take place as early as Monday.
If enacted into law, the bill would strip the Supreme Court of its power to limit the government’s decision-making authority. Should the bill pass through the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, it is likely to face legal challenges. The Israel Bar Association is among the organizations preparing to challenge the law in court.
Last week, President Joe Biden emphasized the need for Israel to reach a consensus on judicial reform, highlighting the importance of democratic values in the relationship between the United States and Israel.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu is currently hospitalized for a pacemaker fitting. The 73-year-old was admitted to the Sheba Medical Center late Saturday after a heart monitor detected abnormalities. According to The Guardian, he underwent an emergency procedure early Sunday.
The procedure, as reported by the BBC, was successfully completed without complications, and Netanyahu is not in a life-threatening condition. Netanyahu addressed his well-being in a video posted on Twitter, stating that he feels “excellent.”
