Story perspectives

Judge Shortage Sparks Outcry Amid Rising Crime in Israel

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

High Court Justice Alex Stein criticized Justice Minister Yariv Levin for a judge shortage that allows murder defendants to be released.
The Beersheba District Court is short six judges, delaying criminal cases amid rising crime in southern Israel.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara accused Levin of improperly vetoing judicial appointments.
Levin has not convened the Judicial Selection Committee since January 2025 to delay appointments until after the general election, prompting protests.

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Story summary

High Court Justice Alex Stein criticized Justice Minister Yariv Levin for a judge shortage that allows murder defendants to be released.
The Beersheba District Court is short six judges, delaying criminal cases amid rising crime in southern Israel.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara accused Levin of improperly vetoing judicial appointments.
Levin has not convened the Judicial Selection Committee since January 2025 to delay appointments until after the general election, prompting protests.