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The
drive to change the justice system by Netanyahu's ruling
coalition of nationalist and religious parties has sparked
unprecedented protests, stirred concern for Israel's democratic
health among its Western allies and bruised the economy.
Commanding 64 of the Knesset's 120 seats, Netanyahu's coalition
appeared on course to win the vote, the first of three required
for the new bill to be written into law, with protests likely to
intensify should that happen.
Netanyahu on Sunday signalled impatience with the demonstrations
that have flared anew while protesters promised disruptions
nationwide on Tuesday, including at Israel's main international
gateway, Ben Gurion Airport.
The coalition plans as soon as Tuesday to press on with
legislative steps on the bill, which curbs Supreme Court power
to void decisions made by the government, ministers and elected
officials.
Critics argue that the bill invites corruption and abuses of
power. Proponents say it will facilitate effective governance by
curbing court intervention.
Divisions over the judicial overhaul have cut deep through
Israeli society. Netanyahu had placed it on hold for compromise
talks with the opposition hosted by Israel's president, but that
fell through last month and the coalition restarted legislation.
Netanyahu - who is on trial on graft charges he denies - says
the changes are meant to restore balance among branches of
government. He has played down economic fallout from the
campaign, which has spooked investors and weakened the shekel.
(Reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Peter Graff)
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