In a significant development, Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar has assured that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will adhere to any decision made by the High Court of Justice. This statement comes amidst accusations that the government is attempting to provoke a constitutional crisis. Zohar’s comments were made following the cabinet’s approval of a resolution that challenges the High Court’s decision permitting the Council of the Second Authority to continue its operations despite not meeting the necessary quorum.
The government contends that the High Court’s decision is at odds with current legislation and insists that all branches of the state, including the judiciary, must function within legal constraints. Minister Zohar clarified that the cabinet’s resolution aims to avert a constitutional crisis rather than instigate one. The issue has sparked a heated response from opposition figures and legal analysts.
President Isaac Herzog has cautioned that disregarding High Court rulings would breach a “red line.” Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett echoed this sentiment, warning that failure to honor judicial decisions could lead to constitutional disorder and jeopardize the principles of democratic governance.
The controversy revolves around the authority’s involvement in the approval process for the proposed acquisition of Channel 13. Critics argue that the government is seeking to exert political influence over media regulation by controlling the broadcasting council. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and the judiciary, raising questions about the balance of power within the state’s institutions.