Story perspectives

Knesset Moves to Weaken Attorney General's Authority Amid Criticism

1/8/2026

Center

Knesset Undermines Attorney General

The Knesset advanced bills to weaken Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's authority, including a proposal to remove legal advisers from her jurisdiction, backed by 58 MKs.
The legislation would place legal advisers under ministry directors to increase their independence.
Critics say the reforms threaten judicial independence and democracy.
Baharav-Miara issued a legal opinion saying state funding for ultra-Orthodox schools that fail legal standards cannot continue unless they meet core curriculum requirements.

Left

Rothman Proposes Bill

The Knesset is advancing a bill to let incoming Israeli governments appoint their own attorney general, altering the current six-year term system.
Simcha Rothman of the Religious Zionism party leads the proposal, which would allow immediate replacement or a temporary extension.
Critics, including opposition lawmakers, say the change politicizes the role and undermines judicial independence.
Rothman says the revisions address concerns and the proposal remains open for discussion.

History

Historical Context

Israel's Supreme Court ruled in 2005 against funding ultra-Orthodox schools lacking a core curriculum, highlighting tensions between secular and religious factions. The proposed 2023 judicial reforms, led by Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin, aim to limit the Supreme Court's powers and could undermine judicial independence, raising concerns about the balance of power in Israel's democracy and prompting widespread protests.

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Knesset Undermines Attorney General

The Knesset advanced bills to weaken Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's authority, including a proposal to remove legal advisers from her jurisdiction, backed by 58 MKs.
The legislation would place legal advisers under ministry directors to increase their independence.
Critics say the reforms threaten judicial independence and democracy.
Baharav-Miara issued a legal opinion saying state funding for ultra-Orthodox schools that fail legal standards cannot continue unless they meet core curriculum requirements.

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