Judicial Ombudsman Criticizes Supreme Court for Shabbat Rulings

On May 20, 2026, the judicial ombudsman upheld complaints against Supreme Court President Isaac Amit and Justices Khaled Kabub and Yechiel Kasher regarding their handling of a wartime protest petition on Shabbat. The panel was found to have wrongly issued substantive decisions during the Jewish day of rest.

Details of the Incident

The complaints centered on the justices' decision to issue rulings on a petition related to wartime protests, which took place on Shabbat. According to Jewish law, Shabbat is a day of rest, and conducting official judicial business during this time is generally avoided. The ombudsman determined that the justices' actions harmed public trust and proper case management.

Implications for Judicial Conduct

This ruling underscores the importance of adhering to established protocols and cultural sensitivities within the Israeli judicial system. The decision serves as a reminder for judicial officials to respect religious observances and maintain public confidence in the judiciary's impartiality and adherence to tradition.

Reactions and Next Steps

The Supreme Court has acknowledged the ombudsman's findings and is expected to review internal procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Legal analysts suggest that this incident may prompt broader discussions about the balance between judicial responsibilities and religious practices in Israel.