Tel Aviv, 13 August 2023 (dpa/MIA) - Tens of thousands of people demonstrated for the 32nd consecutive Saturday night in Tel Aviv against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing religious government weakening the judiciary.

Chants of "democracy or rebellion" could be heard in the coastal city, alongside trumpets and drums.

Israeli media estimated 103,000 demonstrators in Tel Aviv alone, while organizers put the figure at 120,000.

A total of 150 protests were planned across the country, according to media reports, including some in front of the homes of high-ranking government officials.

Thousands also demonstrated in the city of Haifa, the reports said.

The army, meanwhile, is already feeling the impacts of the Israeli government's reforms which aim to weaken the judiciary's powers. Over 10,000 reservists pledged to walk out in case the government goes through with its reforms.

Ever since the first part of the law on judicial reform was passed, the military have kept their promise. This has led to problems with training people, Israeli media reported.

The law, which came into effect at the end of July, prevents judges from categorizing decisions made by the government or individual ministers as "inappropriate."

Experts believe this could lead to arbitrary appointments to crucial positions, including the attorney general and the chief of police. Critics argue that this poses a significant threat to the separation of powers and Israel's democracy.

Netanyahu's government, on the other hand, argues that the Israeli Supreme Court is too powerful and interferes too much in politics.

The reforms have divided the country for months, with tens of thousands coming out to protest each week.

In September, the Supreme Court will consider petitions against the law. If the court were to strike down the law, it could trigger a natonal crisis.

Photo: EPA