Israeli leaders are struggling to address the growing divide between the High Court of Justice and the Cabinet, as judges warn that officials may face legal consequences for noncompliance with court orders. On July 7, 2026, the High Court reaffirmed that the government must comply with orders to restart operations of the Second Authority for Television and Radio, or risk losing personal immunity from civil damages. Justice Minister Yariv Levin referred to the Supreme Court as a 'gang of dictators,' while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich labeled them a 'judicial mafia.' Smotrich further suggested that the court's threats resembled those from a protection racket. The unrest stems from the High Court's order for the communications regulatory authority to resume operations despite a lack of quorum, which the Cabinet unanimously rejected. Former High Court judges have warned that the Cabinet's actions could undermine democracy in Israel. Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would comply with the High Court's decision to avoid a constitutional crisis.
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Israeli Cabinet Criticizes High Court Amid Legal Dispute
The Israeli Cabinet is facing criticism from the High Court of Justice, which has warned of legal repercussions for noncompliance with court orders. Key ministers have made inflammatory remarks about the court, calling it a 'gang of dictators' and a 'judicial mafia.' The situation has raised concerns among former judges about the implications for democracy in Israel.
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Netanyahu’s Cabinet calls High Court a ‘judicial mafia’ and ‘gang of dictators’
Israeli Cabinet Criticizes High Court Amid Legal Dispute