Israel Knesset Passes Controversial Legislation on Attorney General Powers and Media Oversight

The bill, which originally aimed to split the attorney general’s role into two separate offices, was amended to retain criminal prosecution powers under the attorney general while removing the method of hiring and firing the attorney general.

What Changes Did the Knesset Approve?

The Knesset voted 59-45 to split the legislation, which was driven by time constraints ahead of the parliament’s scheduled dissolution. The revised bill preserves the most contentious provision: the government’s ability to disregard the attorney general’s legal opinions, a move critics argue undermines the rule of law. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has warned that this provision risks eroding checks on executive power.

Knesset Constitution Committee legal adviser Gur Bligh highlighted concerns that the bill’s language could enable the government to expand its authority beyond legal boundaries, particularly in criminal proceedings and election law.

Why Is the Media Overhaul Bill Controversial?

Alongside the attorney general bill, the Knesset advanced a media overhaul legislation that critics say grants the government significant control over broadcast media and news outlets. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi’s proposal would allow the government to regulate content, a move condemned by the Knesset’s legal staff and Baharav-Miara as a threat to press freedom.

Opposition lawmakers, including Yesh Atid MK Shelly Tal Meron, labeled the bill a “regime change law” that concentrates regulatory power in the executive. However, Likud MK Galit Distel-Atbaryan argued the legislation would increase consumer choice and lower costs. The bill’s fate remains uncertain, as ultra-Orthodox parties have threatened to block it over provisions related to Shabbat broadcasts.

What About the Gender Segregation Legislation?

The Knesset Education Committee approved a bill expanding gender segregation in higher education, allowing universities to offer segregated master’s and doctoral programs. The legislation builds on a 2021 court ruling that permitted limited segregation for ultra-Orthodox students but has drawn sharp criticism from academic groups and opposition lawmakers.

Proponents, including MK Limor Son Har-Melech, argued the bill promotes educational opportunities for religious women, while critics warned it prioritizes religious rights over gender equality. Opposition MK Naama Lazimi condemned the measure, noting that some committee members oppose female representation in the Knesset.

What’s Next for the Legislation?

Meanwhile, the Knesset continues deliberations on ultra-Orthodox-backed measures, including a proposed Basic Law on Torah study to shield Haredi draft dodgers.