Story perspectives

High Court Demands Justice Minister Explain Judicial Vacancies

2/16/2026

Center

Levin's Judicial Accountability

The High Court of Justice in Israel ordered Justice Minister Yariv Levin to explain his refusal to convene the Judicial Selection Committee, a move Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara called illegal, harmful to public interest, and an unauthorized veto over judicial appointments.
The inaction left 44 judicial positions vacant.
The court set a sworn affidavit deadline for Levin by March 8.
A hearing is planned for later in March.

Right

Baharav-Miara's Pardon Review

Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara says she has not yet reviewed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's pardon request, countering claims she would deem it unlawful.
Her office is finalizing a legal opinion to be forwarded to the prosecution.
The opinion will then go to the Pardons Department for further consideration.
President Isaac Herzog's office expressed surprise at U.S. President Donald Trump's comments urging Herzog to grant the pardon, signaling tensions with Netanyahu.

1 of 2

Levin's Judicial Accountability

The High Court of Justice in Israel ordered Justice Minister Yariv Levin to explain his refusal to convene the Judicial Selection Committee, a move Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara called illegal, harmful to public interest, and an unauthorized veto over judicial appointments.
The inaction left 44 judicial positions vacant.
The court set a sworn affidavit deadline for Levin by March 8.
A hearing is planned for later in March.

1 / 2