Israeli Knesset Passes Law Splitting Attorney General Roles Amid Netanyahu's Absence

The Israeli Knesset approved a controversial law splitting the roles of the Attorney General with a vote of 65 to 51. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces legal impediments, was absent from the vote. Although the new law differs significantly from the original proposal to divide the position into two separate roles, it grants the government the authority to disregard the legal advice of the Attorney General.

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, criticized the legislation, calling it part of the current government’s attempt to seize control over the judicial system following the October 7 attacks. Lieberman emphasized that the true reform Israel needs is the establishment of a formal constitution.

The law’s passage marks a significant shift in the balance of power between the government and the judiciary, raising concerns about the independence of legal counsel in Israel’s government decision-making processes. Netanyahu’s absence from the vote was notable given his ongoing legal challenges and the law’s potential impact on his administration.

The next steps will likely involve monitoring how the government implements this law and its effects on the role of the Attorney General, as well as potential legal and political challenges that may arise from this change.