Israeli Cabinet Targets Attorney General Amid Controversy

On March 23, 2025, Israel's cabinet initiated a no-confidence motion against Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, heightening tensions in the government and sparking public protests. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Baharav-Miara of orchestrating efforts to undermine his authority, while critics argue that his actions threaten judicial independence. This no-confidence vote follows the approval of the firing of Ronen Bar, Israel's domestic intelligence chief, igniting concerns reminiscent of street protests that arose during Netanyahu's proposed judiciary reforms before the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

In a letter addressed to the cabinet, Baharav-Miara countered that the no-confidence measure bypassed the necessary legal processes for her removal. She criticized the government for seeking unchecked power during sensitive times, particularly amidst the ongoing war in Gaza. Legal analysts indicate that any attempt to remove her could be a lengthy process due to established protections for her role. The proposed dismissal of Bar has also drawn ire as he labeled the approach illegal and the prime minister's motivations as questionable. Netanyahu maintains that the reshuffling will enhance democracy by curbing the influence of unelected officials and empowering elected representatives, but his adversaries view this as an assault on the very checks that safeguard democratic governance.