By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday arrived UK on his first bilateral meeting with Rishi Sunak, where hundreds of critics of the Jewish leader’s coalition government’s proposed judiciary overhaul held placards, calling him a “traitor”.
Mr Netanyahu’s office said he expects to focus on “the Iranian issue” with the UK Prime Minister, seeking to form “a united international front against Iran to stop its nuclear programme”.
“The two are also expected to discuss strengthening the strategic ties between Israel and the United Kingdom and increasing security and intelligence co-operation,” a statement said.
The Israeli leader will also meet Home Secretary Suella Braverman to discuss dealing with “global terrorism”, it added.
In Israel, protesters blocked major roads and scuffled with police in recent weeks as demonstrations swept the nation.
After a series of scandals involving wealthy associates, Mr Netanyahu is on trial for fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. He denies wrongdoing.
Critics say his government, the most right-wing in Israel’s history, is dragging the nation towards authoritarianism by upending its system of checks and balances.
There is a huge amount of discontent among Israeli voters over his government’s proposals to shake up the judiciary.
He and his allies argue that changes are necessary to diminish the powers of the Supreme Court, which they say has become politicised and is blocking good government.
Many Israelis see the plan as an attempt to weaken democracy in the country.
