The appointment of former Supreme Court president Aharon Barak as Israel’s judge in a genocide hearing at The Hague has stirred controversy, particularly within the ruling coalition. Traditionally criticized by the political right, Barak’s selection has raised eyebrows and, in some instances, sparked criticism. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finds himself on the defensive regarding this choice.
Barak was named Sunday as Israel’s appointee to a 15-judge panel at the International Court of Justice, which is set this week to hear a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The choice came as somewhat of a surprise, given the government’s efforts to roll back powers assumed by Israel’s highest court which have been widely attributed to Barak’s tenure — and the retired justice’s vocal criticism of the overhaul and its champions.
Following the announcement of Aharon Barak’s appointment, several coalition politicians, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, expressed opposition to the choice. Smotrich distanced himself from the decision on Monday, highlighting the dissent within the coalition over Barak’s role in the genocide hearing at The Hague. Supreme Court president Aharon
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed his disagreement with Aharon Barak’s appointment, stating to reporters before his party’s faction meeting that putting the keys in the hands of Barak, despite his honorable reputation, is a mistake. Smotrich criticized the decision, asserting that it was made by the prime minister without consulting the coalition.
In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the appointment of Barak during a Likud faction meeting on Monday. He emphasized that the decision was necessary, given the limited time available, and asserted that the choice of Barak for the role was “proper.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Aharon Barak’s appointment by highlighting his status as a Holocaust survivor with international standing during a Likud faction meeting. Netanyahu emphasized Barak’s background and reputation as factors contributing to his suitability for the role.
Additionally, Netanyahu informed his party’s lawmakers that he had explored the option of nominating an American judge, though the specific jurist was not disclosed in the report from Ynet news site.