In response to a series of contentious rulings by Israel’s Supreme Court concerning the treatment of Hamas prisoners, the right-wing advocacy group Im Tirtzu has launched a highly visible campaign across central Tel Aviv. Hundreds of billboards, funded entirely through grassroots donations, feature bold accusations against the judiciary. One prominent slogan reads: “While the hostages are in Gaza, Supreme Court judges are worried about the terrorists. The Supreme Court Against Israel!”
Matan Jerafi, CEO of Im Tirtzu and a reserve soldier who served in both Gaza and Lebanon, sharply criticized the judiciary. “The judges’ decisions tarnish the institution of the Supreme Court and erode public trust,” Jerafi said. “Court resources are being wasted on petitions focused on the rights of terrorists, most of which are financed by foreign political entities. This is an insult to the families of hostages, fallen soldiers, and those currently serving in combat.”
The controversy follows recent judicial decisions that have sparked public outrage. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ronen recently visited Ofer Prison to inspect the conditions of Hamas security prisoners, including their access to basic supplies such as toilet paper, paper sheets, and blankets. In another ruling, Justices Kasher, Kabub, and Barak-Erez issued a conditional order requiring the state to explain why minimum living standards were not being ensured for these prisoners. The order was prompted by a petition filed by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel and Gisha, both organizations that receive significant funding from foreign political sources.
Looking ahead, the Supreme Court is set to hear a petition next week from four foreign-funded organizations demanding that the Red Cross be granted access to Nukhbah terrorists imprisoned in Israel. According to Im Tirtzu, since the start of the ongoing conflict, six organizations supported by foreign governments have collectively petitioned the court 41 times on issues related to war policy and national security. Over the past five years, these groups have reportedly received more than 92 million shekels (approximately $25 million) in foreign funding.
