Financial Times: Israel’s Democracy Facing Major Threats

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Despite the largest wave of protests ever recorded in Israel’s history, Benjamin Netanyahu remains undeterred. The prime minister’s far-right government has proceeded with a judicial overhaul that has sparked the nation’s most significant domestic crisis since its establishment in 1948. This alarming path taken by Netanyahu’s government poses a threat to the democratic values and ideals of Jewish unity upon which Israel was built.

Israel, often regarded as a democratic model in the Middle East, finds itself in a somber moment. The crisis is projected to escalate as ultranationalist, religious Zionists in Netanyahu’s coalition aim not only to prevent the Supreme Court from using “reasonableness” to challenge government decisions but also to grant ruling coalitions control over judicial appointments and the ability to override the Supreme Court’s legislation nullification. While Netanyahu claims that the courts will remain independent, these reforms fundamentally undermine the state’s crucial checks and balances. Without a written constitution or an upper house, an independent judiciary plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy. Weakening its independence jeopardizes minority protections and removes accountability for leaders. The battle over judicial changes is integral to the nation’s integrity.

This crisis is a result of Netanyahu’s political calculations. Desperate to return to power after 18 months in opposition, he aligned himself with fringe elements of Israel’s right-wing and ultraorthodox Jews in last year’s election, alienating moderate politicians. Consequently, he formed the most ultranationalist governing coalition in Israel’s history, obliging himself to extremist demands. This includes figures such as security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and finance minister Bezalel Smotrich. Meanwhile, Netanyahu, currently facing corruption charges, appeases both zealots and ideologues within his Likud party, like justice minister Yariv Levin. If the prime minister backtracks now, his fragile coalition would be at risk. Moreover, this turmoil unfolds amidst escalating violence between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in the West Bank, as the government pursues annexation.

Former premier Ehud Olmert, among others, warns of Israel’s potential slide into civil war, although it may be an exaggeration. Nevertheless, with ultranationalists determined to proceed with judicial overhaul and ongoing protests, including the recent doctor’s strike, signs of division within Israel are evident.

As the Knesset enters its summer recess, responsible members of Likud should reflect on the threats posed by Netanyahu’s policies to Israel’s security and stability. They should exert pressure on their leader to reconsider. However, the prime minister is unlikely to listen, making it crucial for Israel’s allies, particularly the United States, to intervene. President Joe Biden has urged Netanyahu to seek political consensus, but he should make it clear that there will be ramifications for the relationship between the two countries, including the invitation issued to Netanyahu, unless he reconsiders his approach.