The filibuster in Knesset, which lasted 58 hours, was impressive, but when it ended, the Recommendations Law passed in its final readings as was expected would be the case. Lawmakers voted on the bill and it became law in the 59-54 vote. There were no abstentions.

The bill prevents Israel Police from submitting its recommendations regarding an investigation when the file is handed over to the prosecution.

Prior to the vote, Yesh Atid party leader MK Yair Lapid announced if the bill is passed into law, on Thursday morning 10 Teves, his petition to invalidate the law will be filed with the High Court of Justice.

Justice Minister Yael Shaked shouted at Lapid from the podium, explaining his actions and constant running to the High Court when displeased with the outcome in Knesset is a disgrace and reflects his lack of respect for the Knesset.

Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein also expressed his displeasure with Lapid’s promise to take his case to the High Court. He explained if Lapid does turn to the High Court, he will not permit a filibuster for the opposition in the future.

Over 1,200 objections to the bill were heard during the filibuster, as 80 addresses were heard in a number of languages from the podium including Hebrew, Arabic, Yemenite, and Moroccan. The voting on 309 objections lasted for three hours.

The bill prevents Israel Police from submitting its recommendations regarding an investigation when the file is handed over to the prosecution. Until now, this was the norm, police would submit its recommendations with the file.

Opponents insist that even though Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu excluded the ongoing cases against him even if the law is passed, they feel the bill will improve his situation nonetheless. For one thing, it is pointed out that in the submarine payoffs investigation, Mr. Netanyahu is not a suspect but if at some point in the future he is, then the law will apply to that case. In addition, opponents added MK David Bitan is under investigation and he was permitted to vote for it and it will assist his position in the fraud/bribery case against him.

However, Mr. Netanyahu, MK Bitan and Minister Chaim Katz, all subjects of ongoing police investigations, were not present in the plenum for the vote.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)