MK Milvitsky Calls to Close Israel's High Court and Transfer Powers to New Constitutional Court

MK Hanoch Milvitsky expressed strong criticism of Supreme Court Judge Alex Stein's decision to freeze the budget transfer approved by his committee. Speaking on 103FM on August 6, 2026, Milvitsky outlined his vision for Israel's judicial system, advocating for the establishment of a constitutional court whose judges would be selected by the Knesset. He proposed closing the High Court of Justice and transferring its administrative powers to this new court, while the Supreme Court would remain an appellate court for criminal and civil cases.

Milvitsky emphasized the need to enshrine the legislative process for Basic Laws in a Basic Law on Legislation, and argued that public trust in the enforcement and judicial systems is eroding, which he sees as detrimental to the state. He committed to lobbying policymakers to implement these reforms.

Addressing disruptions by activists from the 'Standing Together' group during the Finance Committee meeting, Milvitsky condemned their accusations against the settlement budget as illegitimate and stated they oppose him politically. He apologized for previously using the derogatory term "Nokhbehs" to describe them, acknowledging it was an inappropriate expression of his strong emotions.

Regarding his political future and the Likud party's status, Milvitsky said he is focused on the party primaries and campaign. He urged center-right voters not to be swayed by other parties that appear right-wing but align with leftist elements, citing Naftali Bennett as an example. He also defended the prime minister's desire to increase influence through reserved slots in the party list, calling it a natural political process and highlighting the grassroots nature of Likud.

Milvitsky's remarks reflect ongoing tensions over judicial authority and political dynamics within Israel's ruling party and broader governance structures.