Israeli police have initiated an investigation into the recent statements made by former Prime Minister Ehud Barak and former IDF deputy chief of staff Yair Golan, which allegedly incite civil unrest in opposition to the government’s judicial reform initiative.

The unit responsible for combating terrorism on the internet, operating under the authority of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, will examine the remarks and present the preliminary findings to the prosecutor’s office. Subsequently, the prosecutor’s office will determine whether to proceed with a criminal investigation.

Former MK Golan, who previously represented the far-left Meretz party, faced criticism from the ruling coalition after advocating for a “nonviolent uprising” against the government’s judicial reform push. Golan expressed determination in mounting a resolute civil resistance, even suggesting the possibility of a large-scale, nonviolent uprising. He stated that demonstrators would feel compelled to break the law.

Golan’s comments were swiftly denounced by the Likud as “incitement to rebellion,” prompting calls for an investigation into his statements. The party emphasized the need to hold accountable those who advocated for and violated the law, asserting that the rule of law must not be undermined.

Furthermore, the police are examining the remarks made by Ehud Barak during an anti-government protest in Haifa earlier this month. Barak encouraged demonstrators to engage in “civil disobedience” or, more specifically, “nonviolent civil disobedience.”

In response to the investigation into alleged incitement, Barak issued a statement dismissing the accusations as an attempt at political intimidation. He characterized it as a tactic commonly employed by oppressive regimes and expressed his belief that it aimed to instill fear in himself, Golan, and the general public. Barak defiantly proclaimed that he, along with Golan, remained unafraid of any individual or circumstance.

Source: Hamodia