Heated Exchange in Knesset Finance Committee Over Budget Revisions

Conflict Erupts Between Committee Chair and Legal Advisor

A contentious debate unfolded in the Knesset’s Finance Committee on Sunday during discussions regarding revisions to the 2025 budget. Committee Chair Hanoch Milwetsky publicly clashed with the committee’s legal advisor, Shlomit Erlich, leading to a charged environment that ultimately prompted members of the opposition to walk out of the session.

The confrontation began as Milwetsky conducted a vote on the budget changes. Erlich expressed reservations about specific sections, arguing that they had not been adequately discussed. In response, Milwetsky criticized the legal advisor’s role, remarking that the legal counsel’s perspective seemed biased towards the opposition, calling their support for the committee’s work “minimal” and urging them to “do their homework.”

Escalation of Hostilities

As the debate intensified, the exchanges grew increasingly hostile. Milwetsky dismissed Erlich’s attempts to express her views, stating, “I heard your position. It doesn’t matter anyway.” When Erlich sought to clarify her stance, he interjected, “Then you didn’t finish, it doesn’t change anything.” Despite her pleas for uninterrupted time to conclude her remarks, Milwetsky’s dismissive gestures signaled a lack of interest.

In a particularly charged moment, Milwetsky accused the legal team of consistently supporting opposition members, declaring, “You are a big disgrace – alleged legal counsel.” His comments escalated the already tense atmosphere, with accusations flying back and forth.

Opposition Response

Earlier in the session, Milwetsky had also ordered opposition member, MK Orit Peretz, to leave the committee meeting, stating, “You are not returning today – only for votes, why? Because that’s how I decided.” This directive prompted the entire opposition bloc to exit the proceedings in protest.

Following the walkout, Erlich attempted to mediate between the aggrieved parties, hoping to restore order to the committee. However, tensions boiled over once again, as Milwetsky took aim at her during the renewed discussions.

Concerns Over Conduct

The incident reflects ongoing concerns about the treatment of legal advisors within the Knesset. Recently, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara reached out to Knesset legal advisor Shgit Apik, addressing the increasingly abusive language directed at legal representatives by some members of parliament. Baharav-Miara underscored the unacceptable nature of such conduct, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in legislative discussions.

This latest incident underlines the fraught dynamics in the Knesset, where budget discussions continue to highlight broader issues of respect and decorum among lawmakers.