This is not how a ‘vibrant democracy’ looks, to use the words of President Isaac Herzog. Rather, it looks like a country in crisis
The High Court of Justice hearing concerning the establishment of a state commission of inquiry took place Thursday without spectators out of fear of rioting. This extreme step was also taken last week for a hearing on the firing of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. It now appears this has become the new normal in the court, which is trying to function under threats of violence.