Clash between judge, Ben-Gvir’s defense over his dismissal during High Court hearing

- udges rejected the defense’s claim of “no jurisdiction” by citing six previous cases of forced ministerial removals in ‘Israel’.
- While the public was barred from the courtroom to prevent a “circus,” violent scuffles and chaos erupted between opposing groups outside.
The ‘Israel’ High Court of Justice held a critical hearing today, April 15, 2026, to deliberate on petitions demanding the dismissal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
In a calculated move to maintain order, the justices enforced a strict protocol, keeping the courtroom almost entirely closed to the public and political figures. This preemptive decision was aimed at preventing the proceedings from devolving into a “political circus” or a stage for heated verbal confrontations.
The atmosphere inside the chamber was defined by a sharp legal tug-of-war. Ben-Gvir’s defense attorney challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the High Court lacks the legal authority to intervene in the appointment or removal of a government minister. However, the presiding judge sharply interjected, reminding the counsel that the court has a duty to examine the legality of ministerial conduct.
The judge explicitly cited that there have been six historical cases in ‘Israel’ where judicial or legal mandates necessitated the removal of ministers under similar circumstances.
While the courtroom remained a sanctuary of legal arguments, the scene outside the building was one of absolute turmoil. Massive crowds of supporters and critics gathered at the entrance, resulting in chaotic scuffles and loud demonstrations.
Protesters traded insults and pushed against security barriers, forcing police to intervene as the political divide in the streets mirrored the legal battle occurring behind the closed doors of the court.



