JNS.org – Former Israeli Supreme Court Chief Justice Meir Shamgar died on Oct. 18 at the age of 94.

Shamgar joined Israel’s highest court in 1975 and became chief justice eight years later. He retired in 1995.

He was known for his “firm stance” in favor of freedom of speech, according to a short biography released by the court.

Shamgar “had an important role in shaping the foundation of Israeli jurisprudence, including legal policy in Judea and Samaria,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a statement.

Related coverage Israeli Minister Outlines Plan to Foster Stronger Unity Among Diaspora Jewry JNS.org - Following the adoption of the Israeli government’s plan earlier this summer to help ensure unity of the global...