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US and European allies condemn Knesset passage of judicial reform bill – JURIST

US President Joe Biden expressed disappointment on Monday over the Israeli Knesset’s passage of the judicial reform bill. In a statement released from the White House, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on behalf of the President, “It is unfortunate that the vote today took place with the slimmest possible majority.” The controversial bill, which seeks to restrict the Supreme Court’s powers by limiting its ability to overrule arbitrary government legislation, passed through the Knesset with a vote of 64-0.In the statement, Jean-Pierre acknowledged the US’s long history with Israel and stated, “President Biden has publicly and privately expressed his views that major changes in a democracy to be enduring must have as broad a consensus as possible.” In both the lead-up to and since the bill’s passage, thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets to protest. Local news sources documented the use of water cannons against protesters, who persisted despite police pressure. Beyond protests, the Israel Bar Association on Tuesday formally petitioned the courts to strike down the bill.Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he believes his majority coalition will reach an agreement with the opposition by the end of November. During Monday’s vote, however, all 56 members of the opposition left the Knesset in protest. Jean-Pierre acknowledged that “talks are ongoing” to accomplish Netanyahu’s goal of a “broader compromise.” In that regard, Jean-Pierre said, “The United States will continue to support the efforts of President Herzog and other Israeli leaders as they seek to build a broader consensus through political dialogue.”Following the White House’s statement on Monday, the UK, France and Germany also issued statements condemning the Knesset’s vote. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office echoed the US’s calls for coalition, stating, “[W]e urge the Israeli government to build consensus and avoid division, ensuring that a robust system of checks and balances and the independence of Israel’s judiciary are preserved.” In a meeting with Israel Minister of Foreign Affairs Eli Cohen, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stressed how “an independent judiciary and clear rules for the separation of powers are important for every democracy… and that includes Israel, as well.”In the month ahead, the Knesset plenum will be in recess. During their next session, the Knesset is expected to take up additional reform bills, which like Monday’s target the judiciary.