Justice Minister Yariv Levin has initiated proceedings to remove Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, accusing her of politicizing her role and obstructing the government’s agenda. The move, long threatened by Levin, has ignited fierce political debate.
Levin’s request sets in motion a legal and bureaucratic process that could take months and will likely be challenged in the High Court. He claims Baharav-Miara acts as an agent of the government’s opponents, citing her opposition to key legislation and decisions, including the military draft exemption for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students.
Opposition leaders condemned the move, with Yair Lapid accusing Levin of undermining democracy during wartime, while Benny Gantz warned it was a direct attack on the rule of law. Meanwhile, government ministers and coalition members praised the decision, calling for Baharav-Miara’s immediate resignation.
Firing an attorney general requires approval from a five-member statutory committee, which currently has vacancies. Levin has urged Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs to fill these positions to advance the process.
The dispute highlights deep divisions between Israel’s government and its legal system. Appointed under the previous Bennett-Lapid administration, Baharav-Miara has consistently challenged the legality of government actions, particularly those tied to the controversial judicial overhaul.
While Levin’s push to remove her is gaining momentum, significant legal and procedural hurdles remain. If the government proceeds despite opposition from the committee, the decision could face strong judicial scrutiny.
As the battle unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for Israel’s judiciary and the balance of power within its government.
