Netanyahu Postpones Interior Minister Appointment Amid Legal Hurdles

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided not to appoint an Interior Minister in the near future, despite a previous commitment to the High Court of Justice. The decision, reported by Kan News on Tuesday evening, stems from legal complexities surrounding appointments during a transitional government period. Initially, Netanyahu believed he could appoint ministers without Knesset approval while in a caretaker capacity. He had even discussed potential candidates and prepared for other ministerial changes.

However, legal counsel advised Netanyahu that such appointments are not permissible for a government whose term has ended, as it is not legally defined as a caretaker government. The High Court had previously inquired about the Interior Ministry post remaining vacant for nearly a year, prompting the state to inform the court that an appointment would be made soon.

Despite earlier indications that Netanyahu would appoint a new Interior Minister before the upcoming elections, reportedly due to anger within his Likud party, the legal advice has led to the postponement. The position will therefore remain unfilled for the time being. Netanyahu had previously informed the High Court of his intention to appoint a new minister before the elections.