Judicial Reform
The investigators were reportedly employed by opponents of the government’s judicial reform initiative.
In an interview, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that his government intends to shelve large parts of its judicial reform plans.
A hearing has been scheduled for Sept. 28 with an expanded panel of 11 judges.
“I believe what is most critical at this time is for Israel to focus on healing and national unity,” said Arthur Dantchik.
“Israeli democracy is now facing real danger that threatens the country’s very existence,” one commentator wrote, adding that Israel’s image as the region’s only democracy is at stake.
The letter was organized by Americans for Peace Now.
The prime minister told NBC News that “when the dust settles people will see that Israel’s democracy has been strengthened, not weakened.”
The hearing is set for 10 a.m. on Sept. 12, Supreme Court President Esther Hayut announced.
“In sovereign states, sovereign democracies, the elected representatives of the people make the decisions,” said the Israeli premier.
“We invite him to enter into negotiations today so that we can all reach a broad agreement,” Netanyahu’s party said.
Several Likud lawmakers say they will only back reform bills with broad support.
Former Gantz adviser Ronen Tzur calls for opposition parties to join the government.
