Israel's Supreme Court Unites to Address Controversial Judicial Coup Law

All 15 justices of Israel's Supreme Court will convene on September 12 to hear petitions challenging a law passed by the Knesset last week that abolishes the reasonableness standard, a key part of the Netanyahu government's plan to weaken the judiciary. The decision to have a full panel of judges indicates the court's belief that this is a significant case, potentially leading to a reduction in the court's powers. Prime Minister Netanyahu has refused to say whether he would abide by a High Court ruling striking down the law. Various organizations and individuals have filed petitions arguing that the law undermines the authority of the judicial system and Israel's essence as a democratic state.