MK Avichai Boaron Calls for New Supreme Court Overhaul Amid Likud List Dispute
Earlier this week, MK Ron Katz from Yesh Atid announced his resignation from the Knesset, citing limited political prospects following the Lapid-Bennett alliance. Katz, who had a low public profile, is noted for his unique political journey and close friendships with former Shas ministers Moshe Arbel and Uriel Buso, transcending typical party rivalries. Buso played a key role in Katz's entry into national politics and described their personal bond, including shared life events and Katz's increased religious observance.
Meanwhile, within Likud, party chairman Benjamin Netanyahu secured approval for eight reserved spots on the party list up to the 29th position for the upcoming elections. However, MK Avichai Boaron opposes this move, arguing that such a number effectively creates a selection committee and undermines internal party democracy. Boaron advocates for primaries with some reserved slots for external experts like generals or academics to strengthen the list.
Boaron also criticized the appointment of IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, labeling him a political player, and expressed skepticism about Netanyahu’s responsibility for the October 7 Hamas attack, attributing more blame to the security establishment’s autonomy. On the topic of a state commission of inquiry into the attack, Boaron demands a mechanism that would earn public trust, rejecting the current proposal where the Supreme Court president appoints the chair.
Regarding judicial reform, Boaron insists that elected officials, not the judiciary, should hold ultimate authority, proposing the establishment of a constitutional court above the Supreme Court if reforms are blocked. He envisions a future government based on the national camp but including partners like Benny Gantz or Gadi Eisenkot, while doubting former PM Naftali Bennett’s electoral viability.
Additionally, internal elections in the Religious Zionist Party have further shifted its composition toward settlers from Judea and Samaria, a trend that may challenge the party’s electoral threshold. A recent Hebrew University study shows declining perceptions of settlers as a security asset across the political spectrum, though support remains high on the right.
