Israeli Parliament Approves Controversial Split of Attorney General Role Amid Fierce Political Backlash

The Israeli Knesset approved a contentious law on Wednesday to split the role of the Attorney General, separating legal advisory duties from criminal prosecution management. The legislation, championed by Knesset Constitution Committee Chair Simcha Rothman, aims to redefine the Attorney General's position, which until now combined legal counsel to the government, criminal prosecution oversight, and state representation in courts.

Rothman hailed the law as a historic correction, stating it is among the most important passed by the current Knesset and praised the government and coalition for implementing the reform. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also endorsed the law, emphasizing its significance for Israeli democracy, Jewish identity, security, and settlement policy, and pledged to pursue further judicial reforms.

Opposition figures strongly condemned the move. Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman called it an attempt by the current government to seize control of the judiciary following the October 7 attacks, advocating instead for a formal constitution. Yesh Atid head Gadi Eisenkot warned the law dangerously undermines the rule of law by neutralizing judicial gatekeepers and placing the government above legal constraints. Sharon Nir of Yisrael Beiteinu criticized the government for weakening state institutions and vowed to reverse the changes after the upcoming October 27 elections. Democratic Union leader Yair Golan accused the government of trying to weaken election integrity through this and other measures.

Under the new law, the Attorney General's legal opinions will no longer be binding on the government but advisory, allowing the government to reject them with parliamentary committee reporting. The government will determine the state's legal positions in court, and if the Attorney General refuses to represent these, another lawyer may be appointed. The law does not affect criminal proceedings or explicitly granted statutory powers. For the first time, the Attorney General's role is codified in legislation, defining duties such as advising the government, assisting in policy formation within legal frameworks, and ensuring consistent legal interpretation across the executive branch.

The law's passage has sparked a heated political storm, reflecting deep divisions over judicial reforms and the balance of power in Israel's democracy.