The Israeli judicial system guarantees judicial independence and this is respected by the government. However, the courts tend to acquiesce in government arguments of national security in sensitive cases.
Respect for human rights was more pronounced with the Supreme Court delivering several ground breaking judgements on equality, torture and ordering the release of Lebanese hostages.
Human rights violations in the occupied territories, however, remained a serious concern.
Attacks on Justice 2000 – Israel (full text, PDF)