"Netanyahu Faces Backlash as Protests Escalate Over Judicial Reform in Israel"

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has summoned the attorney-general to discuss the police's handling of protests against his proposed judicial reform bill, which is set for its first reading in parliament. Critics argue that the bill, which would limit the standard of judicial review, could lead to abuses of power and curtail court independence. Netanyahu, who is currently on trial for corruption charges, claims the aim is to restore balance among branches of government. Street protests have resurged, with demonstrators planning to converge on the main airport and a major mall chain announcing a one-day shutdown if the bill passes. The controversy has also impacted the economy, with estimated losses of around $41 billion.