Israeli MPs have passed a highly controversial bill, despite mass protests aimed at thwarting it. The law removes the Supreme Court’s power to overrule government actions it deems unreasonable, marking the first of a series of reforms to curb the courts’ authority. These planned reforms have triggered significant protests, with opponents arguing they threaten Israel’s democracy.

The government justifies the measures as necessary to correct an imbalance of power, where the courts increasingly intervene in political decisions. The passage of the “reasonableness” bill has brought months of turmoil to a head, with demonstrations blocking roads and facing police intervention. The reforms have polarized the nation, leading to a serious domestic crisis. Critics fear that it could undermine democracy and weaken the judiciary’s independence.