Israelis took to the streets en masse for weeks. There are fierce demonstrations against Prime Minister Netanyahu’s legislative reforms. These changes would marginalize the Supreme Court, giving Parliament more of a say. “Protesters fear that Netanyahu will acquire absolute power,” in this regard. Things are also buzzing inside the army now that many reservists are participating in the demonstrations.
Also listen | “The fierce demonstrations in Israel will not stop”
Netanyahu’s absolute power is dangerous, says Van Benthem. Because the current government is the most right-wing in Israel’s history. This not only affects foreign policy, but also exacerbates the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. “The far-right government will certainly not promote the peace process. There is a good chance that the unrest will increase.’ World leaders like Joe Biden are voicing their concerns, and the Jewish community in the US is also watching tensely.
“The far-right government will not promote the peace process with the Palestinian community.”
Demographic shift
Although this government is democratically elected, a large part of the population opposes Netanyahu’s radical ideas. This is due to a demographic shift, says Van Benthem. ‘The liberal population group is getting smaller and smaller. This explains the shift of power towards the extreme right».