Ex-Supreme Court Justice Rubinstein Criticizes Judicial Overhaul, Supports Settlements
Former Supreme Court Justice and ex-Attorney General Elyakim Rubinstein has voiced strong opposition to the government's judicial overhaul, describing it as an attempt to "destroy" the court, which he considers a strategic asset for Israel. Rubinstein, who served over fifty years in public service, stated he felt compelled to protest the reforms, a step he never imagined taking. He also expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict between the Justice Minister and the Supreme Court President, advocating for "common sense" as a solution.
Rubinstein also criticized the Haredi leadership for its stance on the conscription of yeshiva students, arguing that while Torah study is paramount, it does not preclude military service. Reflecting on the October 7th attacks, which claimed the life of an 88-year-old relative in Kibbutz Be'eri and another family member, he called for a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures that led to the massacre. He noted that he has been reciting Kaddish for fallen soldiers, some of whom he believes may not have anyone else to say it for them.
Long-standing in his support for settlements in Judea and Samaria since the 1970s, Rubinstein recalled even considering a move to Elkana with his family. However, he stressed the importance of making decisions that leave room for future political arrangements and cautioned against harming private Palestinian land. He also expressed doubt about whether decision-makers fully understood all potential scenarios during the 2005 Gaza disengagement.
Looking ahead, Rubinstein hopes for a future Israel that is both "very Jewish and very democratic," rejecting the exclusion of Arab citizens and advocating for civil equality. He praised former Supreme Court President Aharon Barak as a "legal genius" and lauded Yitzhak Rabin as a "fighting statesman" and "patriotic Israeli." Rubinstein identified his tenure as Attorney General as his most challenging role, citing the solitary nature of difficult decisions, including his controversial decision not to indict Benjamin Netanyahu in the "Gifts Affair."
