The Daily

Protests and the Future of Democracy in Israel

Mar 10, 2023

Patrick Kingsley, the Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times, dives into Israel's pressing political turmoil. He highlights the contentious proposals by Netanyahu’s far-right coalition to overhaul the Supreme Court, a move that has polarized society. Kingsley discusses the massive protests erupting in Tel Aviv as citizens voice their fears of eroded democracy and increased violence. He also addresses the historical context of judicial power in Israel and its implications for both Palestinian rights and the country's future.

29:03

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Episode guests

Patrick Kingsley

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Tensions and Transformations: The Role of Israel's Supreme Court

8min

Judicial Power and Political Frustration in Israel

3min

Judicial Reforms and Rising Tensions in Israel

14min

Political Tensions and Future Implications in Global Democracy

3min

Almost immediately after taking power in December, Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition in Isreal proposed a highly contentious overhaul of the Supreme Court.

The court has long been seen as a crucial check and lone backstop on the government, and the plan has divided Israeli society, kindling fears of political violence and even civil war.

Guest: Patrick Kingsley, the Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times.

Background reading:

Protesters restricted road access to Israel’s main airport hours before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew to Italy.
Here’s what to know about the government’s proposals.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

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