US State Dept. calls Israel’s judicial overhaul vote ‘unfortunate’

U.S. State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters in Washington Monday that it was unfortunate Israel’s contentious judicial reform bill passed with the “slimmest possible majority.” Israeli lawmakers passed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s first bill in his judicial overhaul plan, limiting the power of judicial review and sparking nationwide protests. “We understand talks are ongoing and likely to continue over the coming weeks and months to forge a broader compromise even with the Knesset in recess,” said Miller. “And we will continue to support the efforts of President Herzog and other Israeli leaders as they seek to build a broader consensus through political dialogue.”