Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is facing a major test as opposition parties submitted a bill to dissolve parliament, potentially leading to early elections. The ultra-Orthodox coalition partners are threatening to support the measure, making it a serious challenge for Netanyahu.
The issue at the heart of the crisis is mandatory military service for the ultra-Orthodox community, which has long been a point of contention among Israelis. Despite repeated efforts by the government, no law has been passed to exempt these communities from service.
Netanyahu’s coalition relies on support from two ultra-Orthodox parties, and both would need to back the dissolution bill for it to pass. However, top ultra-Orthodox rabbis have recently issued a religious decree opposing military service, complicating negotiations.
The government’s decision has enraged many Israelis who have served in reserve duty and lost loved ones in the ongoing war. The opposition is hoping to capitalize on public discontent and force early elections. With multiple votes and readings required before dissolution can occur, the process could take days or weeks.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/netanyahus-government-faces-possible-collapse-as-opposition-moves-to-dissolve-knesset