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Israel Finds New Ways to Rewrite the Rule of Law

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Israel Finds New Ways to Rewrite the Rule of Law

by Stephen Lendman (stephenlendman.org - Home - Stephen Lendman)

Usually it ignores international laws and its own statute laws, including High Court rulings interfering with its ruthless agenda. 

Nothing stands in its way of its actions, no matter how outrageous against Palestinians or neighboring states - remaining unaccountable for high crimes because the world community ignores them.

The latest outrage involves Knesset legislation, prohibiting police from recommending prosecution of Israel officials after conducting an investigation into their shady practices.

The measure is a virtual Netanyahu protection act. Critics call it an “anti-police law” or “Netanyahu law.” For months, he’s been investigated for alleged bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

He inappropriately or illegally accepted lavish gifts from wealthy supporters, amounting to possible bribery.

He was caught on tape red-handed, negotiating a quid pro quo with Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Arnon Mozes for more favorable broadsheet coverage in return for legislation prohibiting distribution of the free daily Israel Hayom, YA’s main competitor, owned by Netanyahu supporter Sheldon Adelson.

On Sunday, the Ministerial Committee for Legislation approved the proposed bill. Despite strong objections from Israel’s law enforcement community, the measure introduced by Likudnik MK David Amsalem passed its first reading.

Two more approved by majority vote are required for enactment. The measure is being fast-tracked. It could become law by month’s end. 

Its newest version lets the attorney general take police recommendations for an indictment under consideration in cases overseen by a prosecutor, prohibiting public disclosure, suppressing information Israelis have a right to know.

Clearly, the bill was created with Netanyahu in mind. Are supportive MKs rigging things to compromise the ability of the law enforcement community to do its job properly - an effort to absolve him? 

Last week, MK Benny Begin was removed from the Interior Committee for opposing retroactive application of the law.

According to Amsalem, most “cases in which the police decide to write a recommendation saying there is an evidentiary basis (to press charges) are closed by the prosecution.” By proceeding publicly, a “man’s entire life is ruined because he’s already (considered) guilty.”

Zionist Union MK Tzipi Livni countered, saying “(a) prime minister who is clean should say ‘go ahead and publish’ ” because revelations will prove it.

Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid vowed to challenge the law judicially if enacted.

There’s plenty to hold Netanyahu accountable for, his despicable record as prime minister exceeding the worst of Ariel Sharon.

VISIT MY NEW WEB SITE: stephenlendman.org (Home - Stephen Lendman). Contact at [email protected].

 

My newest book as editor and contributor is titled "Flashpoint in Ukraine: How the US Drive for Hegemony Risks WW III."

http://www.claritypress.com/LendmanIII.html

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