Knesset Passes Bill Altering Attorney-General Role by 65-51 Vote

Israel's parliament approved legislation on Wednesday that changes the attorney-general's authority over legal opinions, court representation, and appointment procedures. The bill passed its second and third readings with 65 lawmakers in favor and 51 against. It removes the requirement that the government treat the attorney-general's legal opinions as binding unless a court rules otherwise.

The legislation also ends the attorney-general's exclusive authority to present the state's position in court. It further allows the government to set new procedures for appointing and removing the attorney-general. Current procedures require a committee led by a retired Supreme Court justice to approve any removal.

The law requires the government to adopt new appointment and removal rules within 30 days of the law taking effect.

The attorney-general currently serves as legal adviser to the government, head of the state prosecution system, and final authority on major criminal decisions involving senior officials. The new law is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. The measure was advanced through committee meetings over several months and amended before final passage ahead of the Knesset recess.