The Knesset (Israeli Parliament) is the unicameral legislature of Israel. As the supreme state body, the Knesset is sovereign and thus has complete control of the entirety of the Israeli government. Also, it passes all laws and elects the president and prime minister (although the President ceremonially appoints the latter). In addition, the Knesset approves the cabinet and supervises the work of the government, among other things.
Tours of the Knesset
In addition, the Israeli Parliament elects the state comptroller. It also has the power to waive the immunity of its members, remove the president and the state comptroller from office, dissolve the government in a constructive vote of no confidence, and dissolve itself and call new elections. The prime minister may also dissolve the Knesset. However, until an election is completed, the Knesset maintains authority in its current composition. The Knesset meets in Givat Ram, Jerusalem.
The Supreme Court of Israel
Visitors can visit the Israeli Parliament for a close-up look at its ongoing work on the public’s behalf, impacting every Israeli citizen’s life. The Knesset Visitor Center runs activities for visiting members of the general public. It offers visitors tours and activities on various subjects and invites guests to experience democracy in action. And Israel has a kicking democracy, we say!
Visits to the Israeli Parliament are only possible in the framework of tours, which are offered free. Individuals and small groups may join public tours, which take place on Sundays and Thursdays and do not require reservations. Groups of ten or more must reserve a time in advance through the Visitor Center Reservations Department. A passport or Israeli ID card must be presented to enter the Knesset.
The tours and activities are accessible to visitors with special needs to ensure that all visitors can make the most of their visit to Israel’s parliament.
The Israeli Parliament Dress Code
Visitors should note that by the Knesset dress code, entrance to the Knesset is permitted only in dignified and appropriate attire (no tank/spaghetti tops, crop tops, clothing with political slogans, shorts or ¾–length trousers, ripped trousers, short skirts, and dresses, tracksuits or sweatpants, flip-flops, or clogs).
These rules apply to all visitors ages 14 and up. On official Visitor Center tours, guests under the age of 18 may wear tracksuits or sweatpants. Near the Parliament, there is the famous Knesset Menorah you should check out!
