On May 1st 2023, at the opening of the Knesset’s 25th summer session, Zulat Institute conducted a webinar in which reporter Tal Schneider interviewed the former Justice Minister Gideon Sa’ar, head of judicial reform negotiations in the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Sa’ar said, amongst other things:
“None of us will agree to politicizing and usurping the government of the Judicial Selection Committee. Our ongoing negotiations have not reached a stage where we can close the existing gaps. The media’s report claiming that we have reached an agreement lacks any basis. Despite being the minority, it is crucial for us to act reasonably and make judicious decisions. I don’t believe we should impose a time limit on this situation.”
“I don’t see a path for the government to dissolve in the nearest future. We have made significant strategic advancements in reshaping public opinion, completely transforming the political landscape. It will become apparent in the next elections. We will make every effort to hold another round of early elections, but I cannot guarantee that it will happen immediately, either tomorrow or next week.”
“The Justice Minister expressing concerns about a one-sided judicial system raises questions about how such a statement can be made. 2 out of the 15 judges currently live in Yehuda and Shomron. Levin demonstrates a complete misunderstanding of an independent judiciary’s true essence and significance.”
(Translation from Hebrew: Moran Yellin)
Watch (Hebrew, no subtitles):