US hails PA decision to boost judiciary’s independence days after panning Israeli overhaul advancement
Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
The US Office of Palestinian Affairs hails Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’s decision to scrap a 2022 decree that created a supreme body under his control with the ability to review legal cases.
The new Supreme Council for Judicial Bodies and Authorities was never fully established, but it would’ve led to a significant curbing of the Palestinian judiciary’s power and independence.
“We applaud President Abbas’ decision to nullify the Supreme Council for Judicial Bodies and Authorities. An independent judiciary is essential for any successful society and crucial for any future Palestinian state. We welcome further PA initiatives aimed at improving governance,” the US Office of Palestinian Affairs tweets.
The praise for Ramallah contrasted starkly with the disappointment Washington expressed earlier this week after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government passed the first piece of legislation from its judicial overhaul.
