Israel’s consul general in New York announced his resignation on Sunday, quoting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s determination to terminate Israel’s defense minister, who had demanded a delay in controversial judiciary reforms.
Asaf Zamir announced his resignation in a statement posted to Twitter, saying he is becoming increasingly concerned with the approaches of Israel’s government. He said the suggested judicial reforms have contributed to his problems, and the sacking of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant Sunday “convinced” him to step down.
Zamir wrote in the statement that the political situation in Israel has reached a crucial point, and I feel a serious sense of responsibility and ethical responsibility to stand up for what is right and to fight for the democratic values that I hold dear.
Netanyahu fired Gallant on Sunday, a move that pushed thousands of protesters to the streets. Gallant had spoken out against a suggested judicial reform plan the day before he was laid off.
The plan would permit the government to overrule Supreme Court decisions and give the executive more control to appoint justices.
The proposal has sparked anger both in Israel and internationally, as protesters have flooded the streets since the proposals were announced. U.S. lawmakers have expressed crises over the new reforms, saying that they could threaten Israeli democracy.
Zamir repeated these concerns in his statement, saying that the new reforms would “undermine” the democratic system in the country.
Zamir added that this is a pivotal moment in Israel’s history, and while my time at the consulate has been fulfilling and rewarding, I believe that it is now time for me to take action and join the fight for Israel’s future alongside fellow citizens as we work together to build a better, more just and more equal Israel.
Zamir continued that my decision to resign should not be seen as a rejection of Israel or its people. On the contrary, I am taking this step because of my deep love for my country. As a proud Israeli citizen, I believe it is my duty to ensure that Israel remains a beacon of democracy and freedom in the world.
