Biden also shares his wish for Netanyahu's Coalition to "stop rushing to slam through a constitutional overhaul, without even the semblance of a national consensus." National Security Adviser Hanegbi refutes columnist's claims, saying that the call between the leaders was "good, cordial, and constructive."
Tens of thousands of protesters pack the streets of Tel Aviv on Saturday night, marking the 28th straight week of demonstrations against the judicial reform.
"It's going to get more violent and more severe," a senior police officer tells Israel Hayom on Thursday, adding, that force "will separate the two sides; we won't let kibbutzim be blocked."
Gallant calls on public figures on both the Right and Left to keep politics out of the IDF. Retired IAF officers back reservists, including former Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Dan Halutz.
The US, which has called for the independence of the judiciary to be protected and urged Netanyahu to try to build consensus for his reform proposals, issues statement calling on Israel to respect the right to peacefully assemble.
Anti-overhaul activists have called for nationwide mass demonstrations throughout the day, including protests at Israel's main international airport that could disrupt travel.
With the major part of the judicial overhaul – a measure preventing justices from overruling ministerial decisions – passing its first reading, demonstrators vow to stage protests nationwide, including at Ben-Gurion International Airport.
Big Shopping Centers says it will shut all its stores on Tuesday if the controversial legislation is passed, but later walks backs comments due to political pressure.
The economic and defense package comes amid the deteriorating security situation in Judea and Samaria.
Police say ahead of the demonstrations they would not tolerate attempts to damage infrastructure or hurt officers.