If the state budget is not approved in all three readings by the end of March, when the fiscal year closes, the Knesset will automatically dissolve, and elections will be called.
The appeal was heard a day after the district court reversed an earlier decision by Magistrate’s Court President Judge Menachem Mizrahi and reinstated restrictive conditions on Tzachi Braverman.
Smotrich thanked Trump for his support for Israel and efforts to assist in returning hostages, but said the US president’s Gaza plan should be canceled.
Bereaved families, victims of the October 7 attacks, and parents of former hostages attended the panel.
The clash intensified when Smotrich said, “Who are you anyway? Why are you interfering?" and Amsalem replied, “You’re not speaking politely, don’t call me chutzpan.”
Michal Gadisman, who said she previously worked as a senior secretary for former minister Silvan Shalom, also testified, alleging he sexually assaulted her years ago.
Opposition leaders said the legislation would create a "whitewash committee," allowing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid taking responsibility for failures surrounding the attacks.
According to the group, the protesters went to confront faction head Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich over rising prices and what they describe as misplaced government spending.
A first reading of the budget must be approved for the state to approve it in March.
Dan Illouz discusses his path to the Knesset, his battles inside Likud, and how the October 7 massacre reshaped his sense of responsibility.
The responses were divided into those who support Israel joining the attack only if Iran first attacked or prepared to attack (29%) and those who would support Israeli participation regardless (44%).
