Israeli Knesset Approves Law Reshaping Attorney General Role and Government Legal Authority

The Israeli Knesset passed the Attorney General Law in its second and third readings on Wednesday evening, marking a significant step in the ongoing judicial reform led by the governing coalition. The law was approved by a vote of 65 in favor and 51 against, following intense political negotiations, including a last-minute agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties over funding for Haredi kindergarten teachers. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu played a key role in securing the coalition's support by promising to address the funding issue in a future cabinet meeting.

The legislation formally codifies the role and status of the Attorney General (AG) for the first time in Israeli law, shifting the balance of power between the government and the AG. Under the new law, the AG's legal opinions will no longer be binding on the government but will serve as professional recommendations. The government gains the authority to determine the state's legal positions in court cases and may appoint an alternative lawyer if the AG refuses to represent the government's stance, except in criminal proceedings and other explicitly defined powers.

The law aims to restore decision-making power to elected officials, as emphasized by Smotrich and committee chairman Simcha Rothman, who led the legislative effort. Rothman described the reform as a historic change that returns the AG to an advisory role, enabling the government to implement its policies without being overridden by legal counsel. The coalition plans to advance a second part of the AG role split after the upcoming elections, contingent on electoral support.

Opposition voices, including current AG Gali Baharav-Miara, have expressed concern over the law's implications. The legislation is part of a broader judicial overhaul that has sparked widespread debate in Israel about the balance between judicial independence and government authority.

Key figures involved include Justice Minister Yariv Levin, committee chairman Simcha Rothman, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The law's passage reflects the coalition's commitment to reshaping Israel's legal system according to its platform and promises to voters.