Tel Aviv: The Israeli Knesset is poised to vote on a significant draft bill introduced by opposition parties aimed at dissolving the assembly, a move that could trigger early elections. This development marks a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape, reflecting deep-seated divisions within the government.
According to Anadolu Agency, the opposition parties have unanimously decided to place the bill to dissolve the Knesset, emphasizing that the decision is binding on all factions. In a concerted effort to focus on this objective, the opposition has removed other legislative agendas to concentrate solely on the goal of overthrowing the current government.
Supporters of the bill are actively seeking the support of ultra-Orthodox parties to secure the Knesset's dissolution, aiming to initiate early elections. The United Torah Judaism (UTJ) bloc, which holds seven seats in the 120-seat Knesset, has already pledged its support for the bill. However, the stance of the Shas Party, which possesses 11 seats, remains uncertain. Israeli Channel 13 previously reported that Shas might support the dissolution in the bill's preliminary reading due to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's inability to pass legislation exempting Haredi Jews from mandatory military service.
The governing coalition, which currently holds 68 seats, requires a minimum of 61 to maintain its hold on power. The ultra-Orthodox communities have been vocal in their protests against mandatory military service, especially after a Supreme Court ruling on June 25, 2024, mandated their enlistment and prohibited financial aid to religious institutions for students refusing to serve. Haredim, making up about 13% of Israel's population, argue that their religious studies are paramount and that military service threatens their religious and communal identity.
This political maneuvering comes amid ongoing military actions in Gaza, where the Israeli army's offensive since October 2023 has resulted in the deaths of nearly 55,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. The opposition has accused Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict to placate his far-right coalition partners and maintain his grip on power.
Netanyahu's administration is under international scrutiny, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for him and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice over its actions against civilians in the enclave.