Netanyahu will do whatever it takes to “reach a solution” acceptable to both the project’s defenders and its critics
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a previously unreleased and long-awaited speech on Thursday evening that the Knesset would table reform of the law next week despite protests. “That’s it. I’m entering the arena,” he said.
Netanyahu announced that he was determined to press ahead with reform but would do whatever it takes to “reach a solution” acceptable to both the project’s defenders and critics.
“A few months ago, when the election results were announced, I said that I intend to become prime minister for all citizens of Israel,” the prime minister began. “That’s what I thought then and that’s what I think now. We have a country and we must do everything we can to protect it from external threats and from an irreconcilable rupture from within. We must not allow a dispute to jeopardize our common future. We must condemn violence.” and incitement,” he continued.
“Today, according to some, the Supreme Court acts like a ‘closed club’ to appoint judges on ‘nepotism and contacts’ grounds. They call themselves. I believe that we can bring about a reform that addresses the concerns of both sides and that restores and preserves the balance of power and individual rights. We are determined to push ahead with a reform that will allow for a balance between powers,” he added.
“The law that will be presented to the Knesset is a law that balances and diversifies the court. We don’t want a controlled dish, we want a balanced dish. It’s the people’s court. It’s not the end of democracy, it’s strengthening it. I intend to enshrine the rights of individuals in law. We will guarantee the basic rights of all Israel. Any legislation will respect these principles. Unfortunately, until today my hands were tied and we got into an absurd situation,” assured the Prime Minister.
“I intend to enshrine the rights of individuals in law. We will guarantee the basic rights of all citizens of Israel – Jews and non-Jews, secular and religious, women, LGBT people. All without exception,” Netanyahu promised in his speech.
“The best way to promote is to talk to reach an agreement,” he stressed, condemning the opposition leaders’ refusal to engage in dialogue. “For the good of our state, I will do whatever it takes to find a solution. I will do whatever it takes to calm things down and avoid heartbreak,” he concluded.