Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar has assured that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is committed to adhering to any verdict issued by the High Court of Justice. This statement comes amidst allegations that the government is attempting to provoke a constitutional crisis. Zohar’s comments followed the cabinet’s approval of a resolution that dismisses decisions made by the Council of the Second Authority, which the High Court had ruled to continue functioning even without the necessary quorum.
The government contends that the High Court’s ruling is at odds with existing legislation, emphasizing that all branches of the state, including the judiciary, must operate within legal frameworks. According to Zohar, the government’s resolution is aimed at preventing a constitutional crisis, not inciting one. Despite these assurances, the move has been met with significant backlash from opposition figures and legal analysts.
President Isaac Herzog has voiced concerns, stating that non-compliance with High Court rulings would be a breach of a “red line.” Similarly, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has warned that such actions could result in constitutional turmoil and weaken the foundations of democratic governance.
The contention arises from the authority’s involvement in the approval process of a potential acquisition of Channel 13. Critics argue that the government is attempting to exert political influence over media regulation by manipulating the composition of the broadcasting council. This has fueled fears of government overreach and raised questions about the independence of regulatory bodies.