Israel Tells Supreme Court Missing Climate Targets Reflect Ambition, Not Failure
Israel has informed the Supreme Court that it is not legally bound to meet specific numerical targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, despite having previously set government goals. The government has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to cutting emissions and described its targets as "ambitious." However, in response to a petition filed by the environmental group Green Course and dozens of activists, the state argued that there is no "bottom line" for emission reductions and that the court cannot compel it to meet self-imposed goals.
Scientific consensus indicates that a 43% reduction in emissions by 2030 is necessary to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, yet Israel’s official target is a 27% reduction by 2030. Current forecasts suggest Israel will only achieve about a 19% reduction without additional measures. The state claims that missing this target does not signify failure but rather reflects the ambition of the goal. Meanwhile, many countries have legislated ambitious targets and roadmaps to meet them.
The petition, filed nearly three years ago by Green Course and activists including youth and elderly citizens, accuses Israel of insufficient action on the climate crisis and failing to meet international emission reduction commitments, thereby endangering public health, the economy, and security. Following a February hearing, the Supreme Court requested clarification on Israel’s minimum emission reduction threshold, the steps being taken, and the status of the stalled Climate Law.
Israel’s response states there is no binding numerical floor for emission cuts and that international commitments require only "ambition" and ongoing effort, not specific targets. The state also cites unique challenges such as rapid population growth, lack of regional electricity grid connectivity, land scarcity, and security constraints to justify lower targets compared to other countries. Despite acknowledging that the Climate Law remains stalled due to internal government disagreements, Israel has yet to advance it further.
Green Course government liaison Tomer Gertel criticized the state’s response as contradictory and dismissive, highlighting the risk of ignoring the climate crisis. He warned that the government’s approach could lead to severe consequences, comparing it to other costly policy failures and describing the state’s stance as ignoring intelligence warnings before a security disaster.
