ALWAGHT- Citing dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel’s Shas party will vote in favor of dissolving the Knesset on Wednesday.
The Israeli ultra-Orthodox Shas party has announced its intention to vote for dissolving the Knesset, signaling a major threat to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s already fragile coalition. Shas, traditionally a key Netanyahu ally, expressed disappointment with his leadership, particularly his delayed response to their concerns. The party’s withdrawal could reduce the ruling bloc’s majority, potentially leading to early elections. This development comes amid mounting tensions over military draft exemptions for yeshiva students, an issue central to the ultra-Orthodox agenda.
The crisis deepened as Shas and United Torah Judaism demanded legislation exempting Haredi men from military service. Despite Netanyahu’s office claiming progress, ultra-Orthodox leaders remain unconvinced, reportedly coordinating efforts to support dissolving the Knesset. Meanwhile, opposition leader Benny Gantz streamlined his party’s agenda to prioritize a dissolution vote, accusing the coalition of trying to stall. The opposition’s move, combined with internal defections, has left Netanyahu politically cornered.
Speculation is growing that Netanyahu may call for early elections to avoid being ousted. Facing increasing backlash over unresolved draft issues and accusations of inequality, he may attempt to shift the narrative and rally support from military reservists and secular voters. However, the lack of a legal solution, coupled with repeated judicial rejections of exemption laws, has intensified the crisis. With few options left, Netanyahu’s political survival may depend on a bold preemptive move.
