Knesset Passes Controversial "Reason for Reasonableness" Law Amid Opposition Boycott

In a highly contentious session at the Israeli Knesset, the controversial "reason for reasonableness" law, proposed by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, has been passed on second and third readings with a majority of 64 Knesset members in favor and no opposition. The law's passage marks a significant milestone in what Levin describes as a "legal revolution" plan.

Opposition members vehemently opposed the bill and staged a boycott of the vote, leaving the plenary hall and expressing their disapproval with chants of "shame" aimed at the coalition. Demonstrations against the legislation continued outside the Knesset building, with protestors attempting to block access roads to the Mishken.

The "reason for reasonableness" law, as stated in the Basic Law: The Judiciary, will prevent any discussion or challenge to the government's decisions, including those made by the Prime Minister or other ministers, on the basis of reasonableness. This legal principle had been a significant part of the Israeli judiciary since 1980, but its repeal will fundamentally alter the way administrative decisions are examined and challenged.

During the voting process, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri, while other leaders within the coalition engaged in discussions among themselves. The opposition leader, Yair Lapid, expressed his frustration with the government's unwillingness to reach compromises and declared that "with this government, it is impossible to reach agreements."

Amid the heated debates and exchanges between Knesset members from the opposition and the coalition during the voting, Defense Minister Yoav Galant was caught in a tense confrontation with Levin. Galant had attempted to find middle ground through compromises, but Levin adamantly opposed any softening of the law.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana praised the Knesset guard and Israel Police for protecting the democratic process from attempts to block access to the Knesset during the protests.

The passing of the law drew criticism from the American government, with White House spokeswoman Karin Jean-Pierre expressing regret and disappointment over the Knesset's approval of the first phase of the legal revolution. She urged Israeli leaders to seek a consensus-based approach through political dialogue for major democratic changes.

The approval of the "reason for reasonableness" repeal signals a significant shift in Israel's legal landscape and has sparked both internal and international reactions. The future implications of this legislative change remain to be seen as the country grapples with the consequences of this historic decision.