Israel's Supreme Court convened on Tuesday to deliberate on petitions seeking the removal of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from his position. The legal challenges center on whether Ben-Gvir's past criminal convictions and controversial statements disqualify him from holding such a sensitive security portfolio.
"The minister's history raises serious questions about his fitness to oversee Israel's national security apparatus," argued one petitioner's attorney during the proceedings.
The court's decision could have significant political ramifications for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government, which relies on Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party for its parliamentary majority. Legal experts suggest the court faces a delicate balancing act between judicial oversight and parliamentary sovereignty.
Ben-Gvir, known for his hardline stance on Palestinian issues and previous support for extremist groups, has faced mounting criticism since his appointment. Opponents argue his presence in the security cabinet undermines Israel's democratic institutions and international standing.
The hearing concluded without an immediate ruling, with justices indicating they would issue a decision in the coming weeks. The case represents one of several high-profile legal challenges testing the boundaries of Israel's constitutional system amid ongoing political polarization.