TEL AVIV (Agencies): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was hospitalized for dehydration after experiencing a dizzy spell, while tens of thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Tel Aviv for the 28th consecutive week. The demonstrations were in opposition to Netanyahu’s plan to overhaul the country’s judiciary. Protest leaders vowed to continue with “days of disruption” in the future.
Netanyahu’s government recently granted initial approval to a crucial part of the overhaul, reigniting the grassroots movement. However, the bill still needs to undergo two more votes before it becomes law, expected by the end of the month.
The protest in Tel Aviv was larger than usual, with participants unfurling a massive banner reading “SOS” and releasing pink and orange paint powder into the sky. Women dressed as characters from “The Handmaid’s Tale” emphasized concerns that the proposed overhaul could threaten women’s rights.
Earlier in the week, protesters staged a “day of disruption” by blocking major highways and disrupting operations at the main international airport. They pledged to continue these actions if Netanyahu proceeds with the plan.
Despite ongoing protests for over six months, the movement shows no signs of waning. Various groups, including the national labor union, medical association, military reservists, fighter pilots, and business leaders, have expressed opposition to the bill. The national labor union even threatened a potential general strike to halt the government’s actions.
The Israeli Medical Association joined the national labor union in opposing the legislation, stating that it would devastate the healthcare system. Critics argue that the judicial overhaul undermines the system of checks and balances and consolidates power in the hands of Netanyahu and his allies. Additionally, they point out that Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial creates a conflict of interest.