Israel's Attorney General Dismissal Sparks Democratic Concerns

The Israeli Cabinet has unanimously voted to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, a decision that has intensified the standoff between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the judiciary. Critics view this as part of a broader threat to Israel's democratic institutions, while supporters claim the Attorney General overstepped her authority.

The Supreme Court has temporarily halted the move as it evaluates its legality. Netanyahu's backers criticize Baharav-Miara for impeding government decisions, including her refusal to dismiss the head of the domestic security agency. She argues her actions stem from a conflict of interest, as Netanyahu and several aides face criminal investigations.

Opponents, citing Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial, accuse him of undermining judicial independence and consolidating power. Protests erupted over previous attempts to overhaul the judiciary, with critics suggesting such moves weakened Israel's defense, notably before October's Hamas attack. Meanwhile, a watchdog group has filed an emergency petition against the dismissal, describing it as 'illegal' and 'unprecedented.'

(With inputs from agencies.)