The Prime Minister has claimed that the framework, which promised the companies fixed prices when selling their gas in Israel, was essential to making sure that “the gas doesn’t remain underground” and crucial to Israel’s economy and security. In fact, the agreement was so important to Mr Netanyahu that he made the irregular step of appearing personally in court last week to argue in its favour.
The issue has caused consternation in his government for nearly a year now, with two ministers refusing to vote, citing conflict of interest, and former economics minister Arye Deri resigning to avoid having to overrule the anti-trust commissioner, who opposed the framework.
A well-organised public campaign against the deal included four groups who petitioned the High Court. The framework will now have to be revised and passed again by the Knesset.
The court’s decision will also exacerbate the already tense relationship between the Supreme Court and the government, with many ministers accusing the court of exceeding its powers to overturn policy.
