The Israeli "Magen" unit, responsible for the security of government ministers, took a notable step on Tuesday evening by enhancing security measures for some ministers. This decision came amidst concerns of a potential escalation in protests against Judicial Reform. The timing coincided with the Knesset's approval of the cancellation of the "Reasonableness Clause," marking the first phase of the judicial reform. In light of the political storm, several ministers were informed of the perceived threat to their safety.

Security has been heightened to what they term a "yellow" level for certain ministers. This entails being accompanied by several security guards whenever they leave their residences, with additional guards stationed at designated locations wherever they go. Justice Minister Yariv Levin, in particular, was deemed to require the highest level of security. While security measures have been scaled back for some ministers based on individual assessments, Minister Levin has continued to receive this heightened protection.

In the past, ministers have voiced grievances about protests held by activists opposing the judicial reform, often taking place in front of their homes. In response to such complaints, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently convened a special discussion titled "Restrictions in the Public Space."

🔥🔥🔥לאחר הערכת מצב של יחידת מגן, השב"כ הידק את האבטחה סביב שר המשפטים יריב לוין, שבימים אלה הוא מאובטח ברמה הגבוהה ביותר על ידי מאבטחים צמודים וסיורים מקדימים במקומות בהם הוא מבקר, מחשש לפגיעה בחייו .
🔥🔥🔥 האלימות והשנאה מביאים את האספסוף למעשי קיצון כך שצריך להתפלל עבורו🙏💙

— Lia (@leale_6) July 26, 2023

Another cabinet meeting was convened earlier this month, prompted by the coalition's allegations of perceived leniency towards protesters who block roads. During this meeting, ministers expressed criticism and placed blame on Attorney General Gali Baharav Miara. Left-leaning newspapers in Israel perceived this as a potentially planned "attack," raising speculation about preparations for her impeachment.

Hebrew media: Shin Bet [Shabak] decides to increase security for “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to potential risks after passing the “judicial amendment” law. Alâhed English......

— Suat Kılıçtaş (@Suatklcts) July 26, 2023

In response to these allegations, Baharav Miara firmly denied any claims of selective enforcement. She subsequently published the document "Policy on Demonstrations" last week, drafted after the stormy government meeting. In the document, the Attorney General clarified that there are written and uniform instructions and procedures governing the handling and enforcement of demonstrations and protests. She emphasized that there are no numerical thresholds or "quotas" guiding law enforcement actions, as adhering to such notions could seriously compromise the value of equality before the law.

מלוכדים News:
לאחר הערכת מצב של יחידת מגן, השב"כ הידק את האבטחה סביב שר המשפטים יריב לוין, שבימים אלה הוא מאובטח ברמה הגבוהה ביותר על ידי מאבטחים צמודים וסיורים מקדימים במקומות בהם הוא מבקר, מחשש לפגיעה בחייו

לעוד עדכונים מהנעשה בליכוד:

https://t.co/bE4CYJLk4d

— מלוכדים News (@Likud_News) July 26, 2023

The situation highlights the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and the right to protest. It also underscores the complexities and challenges faced by government officials in maintaining a democratic society while addressing legitimate concerns from various stakeholders. As tensions persist, it becomes vital to foster dialogue and find constructive solutions that safeguard both democratic principles and the well-being of all citizens.