Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Halts Controversial Judicial Reform; Opposition Ready to Act if Government’s Decision is Genuine

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has put on hold a proposed judicial overhaul that has led to a general strike, political division and mass protests in the country. The reforms would have curtailed the authority of the Supreme Court and given politicians greater powers over the selection of judges. The legislation will now be considered further in the next session of parliament, which begins in April. Tens of thousands of protesters had rallied near parliament in Jerusalem after the strike declaration. The proposals have sparked concern from Israel’s allies, including the US.