Government judicial overhaul plan affects Israel's position globally: Former official

By Zein Khalil

JERUSALEM (AA) - An Israeli former official said Saturday that the world has become to view his country as one that has gone astray in the light of a continued judicial overhaul crisis.

Amos Yadlin, former head of the Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN), commented on the judicial overhaul plan proposed by the government. The plan faces firm rejection from opposition parties.

He said Israel's "geopolitical and strategic" status has a big problem in view of the world, adding that as long as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to be preoccupied with the judicial overhaul plan, it will affect Israel's position in the world.

Protests in Israel have entered its 24th straight week as the government and opposition parties are still unable to settle the judicial issue.

Israel has been in political turmoil in recent months over the Netanyahu government’s plan for judicial reforms, which the opposition views as a power grab in favor of executive authority.

Netanyahu, however, insists his plan would enhance democracy and restore the balance among the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government.

On March 27, Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption, bowed to pressure and announced a temporary halt to the plans amid protests across the country.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar