Smotrich accuses High Court of extortion over government response

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich slammed the High Court of Justice on Tuesday, accusing it of extortion by threats over its handling of the government's formal response, according to ynet.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich sharply criticized the High Court of Justice on Tuesday morning, accusing it of practicing extortion by threats. The remark, reported by ynet, came after the government submitted its formal response to the court, warning justices that defiance of the law could expose them to personal tort liability — as The Zioneer previously reported. Smotrich's statement reflects growing tension between the coalition and the judiciary over the scope of judicial review.

4 developments

1. 1 hour ago · 10:25 · 7 JulLatest

   Ministers Karhi and Levin join Smotrich in condemning the court's warning.

2. 09:43 · 7 Jul

   Smotrich likened court conduct to mob-style protection rackets and bullet-filled envelopes.

3. 09:43 · 7 Jul

   Smotrich demands a police investigation into the High Court.

• Strong1 hour ago · 10:21 · 7 JulLevin responds to High Court warning: judges must do soul-searching, respect the law
• Strong1 hour ago · 10:32 · 7 JulJustice Minister Levin accuses High Court justices of acting 'like dictators'
• Developing11:47 · 21 JunSmotrich warns High Court: the people are sovereign, do not destroy Israeli democracy
• Strong16:29 · 28 JunSmotrich: Millions approved for protection-racket victims, demands police crackdown

Source and signal

• Internal intake