Three Recounts Point To Discontent Of Ruling Coalition With JSC Vote Outcome

Ynet reports that "at the request of the Likud representative, the votes were counted three times, because of the close margin with which Karine Elharrar was elected (with a difference of only two votes)." The repeated requests for a recount of votes provides evidence of the coalition's dissatisfaction with the outcome, which raises the potential of intensified internal conflicts.

• Elharrar was backed by 58 MKs and was opposed by 56. According to Ynet, a total of 114 MKs voted, which means that one did not cast a vote. Likud candidate Tally Gotliv received just 15 votes and was opposed by 59 MKs.
• Reports from the plenary hall point to an emotional reaction from the coalition benches, with an Otzma Yehudit MK shouting on his colleagues. As a reminder, Otzma Yehudit were promised a seat on the JSC as part of the coalition pact.
• The coalition will have an opportunity to install its representative in the JSC when the next vote is held within 30 days. The next vote should be less contentious, even if Karine Elharrar makes good on her promise to run again.
• Ynet notes that Jusrice Minister Yariv Levin may still try to refuse to convene the JSC, preventing the appointment of new judges. The news outlet notes that judicial overhaul talks will likely be frozen until all JSC vacancies are filled.