Eisenkot bloc seeks repeal of judicial changes as coalition talks continue

The bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot is preparing to use its majority in the Knesset to repeal legislation that weakened the attorney-general's authority, with coalition negotiations continuing on Sunday, November 15. Its next legislative target is the reversal of changes to the composition of the Judicial Selection Committee.

Those repeal efforts have different levels of priority. The bloc intends to address the attorney-general legislation first, followed by the changes affecting judicial selection. Reversing legislation concerning the Police Internal Investigations Department is also on its agenda, but ranks below the other two measures.

Alongside the planned repeals, preparations are being made to establish special committees to advance other legislation. Their work would cover the incapacitation of a prime minister, the creation of a state commission of inquiry, and the Communications Law. These initiatives form a separate part of the bloc's parliamentary plans.

The transitional period limits the scope of legislation that can move forward. The bloc is distinguishing between measures it wants to repeal while Eisenkot holds the mandate and other proposals it intends to begin advancing in the Knesset. Completion will depend on the pace of parliamentary work and the legal restrictions applying during this period.

The bloc is also seeking to consolidate control of Knesset committees before a new government takes office. Its planned steps include installing Matan Kahana as Knesset speaker, forming the Arrangements Committee and filling positions on key committees. These appointments would enable it to pursue legislation and scrutinize the caretaker government.

Avigdor Liberman is expected to take over as chairman of the temporary Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Monday. That anticipated appointment follows Likud's delay in convening the committee, amid a dispute over parliamentary oversight of security decisions made by the caretaker government.

The temporary Finance Committee is another part of the bloc's effort to secure parliamentary leadership positions. Liran Avisar Ben-Horin of B’Yachad is expected to become its chairwoman, as the bloc works to put its committee arrangements in place during coalition negotiations.

B’Yachad leader Naftali Bennett said his party had already submitted 17 bills. They include a military service proposal and legislation establishing a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 events. Other bills submitted by the party address security, social affairs and the economy.