Israeli Government Unanimously Rejects Supreme Court Ruling on Communications Authority

In an unprecedented political and legal move, the Israeli government unanimously approved a decision declaring it will not recognize the Supreme Court ruling that reinstated the Second Authority for Television and Radio council, appointed by the previous government. The resolution, drafted by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and Justice Minister Yariv Levin, states that any court ruling blatantly contradicting the law is null and void and will not be acknowledged. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the executive branch and the judiciary.

The Supreme Court ruling from mid-June reinstated the council despite its membership falling below the legally mandated two-thirds threshold. The government’s decision emphasizes that the rule of law binds all branches of government, including the judiciary, and that a ruling contradicting clear statutory language cannot confer authority not granted by law. Consequently, the government will not recognize any actions, appointments, or decisions made by the council under the current circumstances.

The ministers also sent a clear warning to stakeholders in the Israeli media market, stating that no reliance or de facto acceptance will be given to actions taken by the council unless it meets the legal requirements. Communications Minister Karhi sharply criticized the Supreme Court judges, accusing them of overreach and asserting that the government will not support judicial decisions that override explicit legal conditions. Justice Minister Levin framed the decision within the principle of separation of powers, asserting that the Knesset enacts laws and courts must implement them without contradiction.

Legal experts warn that this government stance could trigger a constitutional crisis, as it directly challenges a binding Supreme Court ruling. The practical effect may force state officials, legal advisors, and media regulators to choose between obeying the government’s directive or the court’s decision, deepening the institutional conflict.

The government’s move highlights the intensifying struggle over judicial authority and legislative supremacy in Israel, with significant implications for the balance of power and the functioning of regulatory bodies in the communications sector.