Israeli Cabinet Votes to Defy Supreme Court Media Ruling

The Cabinet of Israel voted unanimously on July 5 and 6, 2026, to reject a June 17 Supreme Court ruling concerning the Second Authority for Television and Radio, the nation's commercial broadcast regulator. The dispute centers on whether the regulator's council can legally operate and approve appointments while failing to meet a statutory two-thirds membership quorum. While the court ordered the council to continue operations, the government argues the ruling contradicts explicit legislation and violates the separation of powers.

This action marks the first time Benjamin Netanyahu's government has openly flouted a Supreme Court decision. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and Justice Minister Yariv Levin led the proposal, with Karhi asserting that judges cannot override law. The move has significant implications for the media landscape, potentially affecting the regulatory status of the pro-government Channel 14 and the sale of the critical Channel 13. Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs attempted to soften the stance, describing the move as sharp criticism and a commitment to use legal means to overturn the order rather than simple disobedience.

President Isaac Herzog, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid condemned the decision, warning it undermines the rule of law and the foundations of democracy. The confrontation occurs amid ongoing corruption trials involving the prime minister and ahead of national elections expected in September or October 2026. Critics suggest the government is attempting to normalize judicial non-compliance to weaken the courts before the vote.