Civil rights in Israel

Ben Chorin links to an important report on the systematic violation of civil rights during the recent protests against the Gaza withdrawal. Violation, indeed dismissal, of the rule of law is an indicator of the potential for tyranny. After all, there is a very good reason why, in last week's parsha, we have the commandment for the Jewish king to have a Sefer Torah by his side at all times.

Usually it is the executive that sees itself as above the law. When the judiciary no longer has respect for the rule of law, you know there is a problem. Unfortunately, this has been a problem in Israel for quite some time. Whether the events of the past few months will be a catalyst for change remains to be seen.