Thousands march in Israel as Netanyahu allies push overhaul

By ILAN BEN ZION
Associated Press

JERUSALEM (AP) — Thousands of Israelis are protesting outside the country’s parliament building ahead of a preliminary vote on a bill that would give politicians greater power over appointing judges. The vote is part of a judicial overhaul proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. The committee vote marks the opening salvo by Netanyahu and his allies in a plan that has divided the country, triggered mass protests and even drawn concern from President Joe Biden. Netanyahu and his supporters say the proposed changes are needed to rein in a judiciary that wields too much power. But his critics say his attempt to take over the judicial system is tantamount to a coup and will destroy Israeli democracy.