Israeli Government Rejects Supreme Court Ruling on Second Authority Council Authority

The Israeli government unanimously approved a proposal by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and Justice Minister Yariv Levin declaring it will not recognize any decisions, approvals, appointments, or actions by the Second Authority Council unless it meets explicit legal thresholds. This move follows a June 17, 2026 Supreme Court ruling that reinstated the council of the previous government despite its membership falling below the legally mandated minimum.

The government expressed concern that the court ruling could trigger a constitutional crisis, particularly as it refuses to acknowledge council decisions such as the ban on the sale of Channel 13 to a tech group led by Assaf Rapoport. The government emphasized that the rule of law applies to all branches, including the judiciary, and that court rulings contradicting clear statutory language cannot confer unauthorized powers.

Minister Karhi stated that Supreme Court judges are not the Knesset and cannot override explicit legal requirements, asserting that a council failing to meet the legal minimum is invalid and its decisions hold no weight. Minister Levin added that the rule of law means the law binds everyone, including the courts, and that judicial decisions opposing clear legal text undermine the separation of powers. He pledged to continue using all legal means to restore the rule of law as the sole source of governmental authority.