Thousands of Israelis protest outside parliament against controversial judicial reform plans

Tel Aviv: Israel has been witnessing massive protests as tens of thousands of Israelis gather outside their parliament against controversial judicial reform plans which have divided the country. Israel has seen some of its biggest demonstrations in years since the plans were unveiled last month. If passed, they would curb the Supreme Court's power and give the government more say over judicial appointments.

Critics say it will undermine democracy; the government argues the reforms will strengthen it.

On Sunday, Israel's President, Isaac Herzog, warned that the country was on the verge of constitutional and social collapse. Involvement by Israeli presidents



in political issues is rare since the post is considered to be a politically neutral figurehead.  Opponents say the plans will politicise the judiciary and could lead to an authoritarian government.

The government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, says the current system is undemocratic, with the Supreme Court able to strike down laws passed by a parliament elected by the people.

Among the planned reforms, the ability of the Supreme Court to strike down laws would be severely weakened. A simple majority in the Knesset (Israel's parliament) would also have the power to override Supreme Court rulings.