Israeli Parties Outline Judicial Overhaul Plans Ahead of 2026 Elections

As Israel approaches the 2026 elections, political parties are articulating their stances on the contentious issue of judicial reform, the composition of the committee for selecting judges, and the scope of the Supreme Court's power. The debate over the future of the judicial system has been a focal point of public discourse and political maneuvering.

The Likud party declined to respond to inquiries from Ynet and "Yediot Ahronot," stating they do not participate in questionnaires. Yisrael Beiteinu proposed a comprehensive constitutional process, including a referendum, to establish democratic rules, fundamental rights, and the balance between branches of government, based on a plan developed with legal experts. They oppose piecemeal changes and advocate for a complete constitutional settlement requiring an 80-MK majority for amendments.

Other parties presented varied approaches. "Yash!" led by Gadi Eisenkot, committed to strengthening democracy by revoking the law politicizing the judicial appointments committee and establishing a professional process for selecting judges, emphasizing checks and balances and opposing an override clause. "Achdut" (Together) called for regulating relations between the Knesset, government, and courts, enacting a Basic Law on Legislation, and enshrining Israel's status as a Jewish and democratic state by making the Declaration of Independence a Basic Law.

Otzma Yehudit stated they are finalizing a detailed legal platform, while "HaDemocratim" (The Democrats) focused on improving citizen service, reducing case backlogs, and appointing more judges, advocating for a holistic change in the Israeli system to anchor separation of powers. "Am Israel" proposed an additional judicial appointment tier based on public will and removing the Bar Association from the selection committee, while also advocating for a reduction in the reasonableness standard.

HaMahane HaMimilu-HaKalkali (The Economic Reservists) supported changes to strengthen the Knesset's status and the separation of powers, proposing a supermajority for the Knesset to override Supreme Court decisions and a moderated reasonableness standard. Religious Zionism, led by Bezalel Smotrich and Simcha Rothman, reiterated their commitment to continuing the judicial overhaul, including appointing a chief justice by secret judge vote, splitting the Attorney General's role, and an override clause, making it a prerequisite for any future coalition. The "Identity" party, running separately, called for a fundamental change to return the judiciary to its original role and for direct public election of Supreme Court justices.

The Joint List emphasized strengthening the democratic space and protecting minority rights, advocating for a balanced mechanism for judicial appointments and judicial protection for all citizens. Ra'am declined to comment on their current stance but previously opposed key government initiatives in 2023, advocating for balance between the branches. Shas, while not initially championing judicial reform, has voiced criticism of the judiciary, which they claim harms the ultra-Orthodox sector, and chairman Aryeh Deri vowed to reform the system. Yahadut HaTorah expressed less interest in judicial legislation, viewing it as a coalition obligation for concessions like draft exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox, but indicated a need for change due to perceived judicial overreach. Blue and White stated the judiciary's power is excessive and unregulated, advocating for Basic Laws to regulate the system while limiting judicial intervention in government decisions and improving oversight of the prosecution.