The controversial Suspension Law” passed in a Knesset vote on Monday 18 Adar-II but it was simply a vote of the majority present and not a majority vote of Knesset. The bill passed in a 59-53 vote as MKs from the Yisrael Beitenu opposition party absented themselves from the vote in protest.

The bill would permit 90 MKs to vote out a colleague whom they feel has spoken out or act against the interests of the State of Israel. The bill in its present form has many opponents, including Speaker Yuli Edelstein.

The fact the bill was passed with less than a majority of the 120-seat Knesset may result in a petition to the High Court of Justice. The decision to bring the bill to a vote was made by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, who wished to see it pass its first vote before the Knesset ends the winter session.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)