Talks between opposition, coalition figures over judicial reform kick off at President’s Residence

Talks between opposition and coalition figures over the judicial overhaul plan begin at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, President Isaac Herzog’s office says.

Yesh Atid’s delegation is made up of MKs Orna Barbivai and Karin Elharrar, former Prime Minister’s Office director general Naama Schultz and lawyer Oded Gazit, while National Unity has sent MKs Chili Tropper, Gideon Sa’ar, Orit Farkash-Hacohen and attorney Ronen Aviana.

Likud says its team will be made up of Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Kohelet Policy Forum legal scholar Aviad Bakshi, Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs and academic Talia Einhorn.

Herzog has been among the most vocal callers in the past few months for dialogue and compromise, although a framework he put forward several weeks ago was immediately rejected by the coalition.

Some of those in favor of the reform and against any compromise have gathered to protest, while others who believe the plan must be thrown out entirely are also continuing to rally amid the talks.