Defence Minister Galant Seeks to Postpone Critical Vote Amid Fears on Military Competence

The Political crisis: Defense Minister Yoav Galant has expressed concern over the potential harm to the military's competence and Israel's security amid ongoing protests. The Knesset is set to vote on canceling the principle of reasonableness next Monday, a move that could prevent the government's decisions from being invalidated on grounds of reasonableness. However, the proposed change has sparked widespread opposition, leading to mass protests and a significant impact on the military.

Galant is actively working with coalition officials to delay the vote and continue discussions with the opposition to find a compromise on the law. He stressed the importance of reaching a broad agreement to safeguard Israel's security and keep the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) out of the political controversy.

The Defense Minister's proposal to extend the Knesset's summer break in order to allow for further negotiations has garnered attention, but it requires approval from the Knesset Committee and the Speaker of the Knesset. The law currently mandates the Knesset to convene for two sessions annually, operating for at least eight months each year. While it does not specify the duration of each session, extensions are permissible, provided the yearly framework is maintained.

The situation took a more serious turn when over 1,100 reservists in the Air Force, including hundreds of pilots, announced that they would not report for duty in protest. This move could severely compromise the operational competence of the Air Force if implemented.

The issue at hand is a proposed legislation that would prevent the courts from invalidating government decisions based on the principle of reasonableness. Many believe this law could potentially damage the security of Israel and erode public trust. Protests have intensified, with reservists expressing deep regret and reluctance to continue volunteering for reserve duty if the law is enacted.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been engaging in talks with Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar David to find a compromise, either by softening the reasonableness law or continuing negotiations after its approval in the Knesset. However, sources within the coalition suggest that the chances of amending the bill are slim due to the demands of Netanyahu's partners.

Notably, this is not the first time such legislation has raised concerns within the military ranks. In a previous instance, Defense Minister Galant warned against the proposed law, fearing its immediate danger to military competence. Prime Minister Netanyahu responded by attempting to dismiss Galant, triggering massive demonstrations and the temporary suspension of the legislation.

As tensions escalate, the fate of the reasonableness law hangs in the balance, with significant implications for Israel's military and political landscape. All eyes are now on the upcoming Knesset vote and the potential for further negotiations to find common ground between the coalition and opposition.