Netanyahu Survives Bid to Dissolve Parliament

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has withstood a significant challenge, as a parliamentary motion to dissolve the Knesset was defeated in a 61–53 vote early Thursday morning. The opposition, led by the Yesh Atid party, had introduced the motion in response to ongoing disputes over military conscription exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community, known as Haredim.

The failed motion provides Netanyahu’s coalition with a six-month reprieve from similar legislative threats, allowing time to address internal divisions and public discontent. The issue of Haredi military exemptions has long been contentious in Israeli society, particularly as the war in Gaza continues to place significant demands on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Traditionally, Haredi men have been exempted from mandatory military service if they are engaged in full-time religious studies. This arrangement, dating back to Israel’s founding, has become increasingly controversial, especially following a 2017 Supreme Court ruling that deemed blanket exemptions illegal. Despite this, implementation has been limited, with only a small fraction of eligible Haredi men enlisting.

In the lead-up to the vote, ultra-Orthodox parties within Netanyahu’s coalition expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s delay in passing legislation to formalize these exemptions. However, most ultimately voted against the dissolution motion after reaching an understanding with coalition leaders to continue discussions on a new draft law. Details of this proposed legislation remain under negotiation.

The ongoing debate over Haredi conscription underscores broader tensions between religious and secular segments of Israeli society, particularly during a time of prolonged military engagement. As the government seeks to balance these interests, the outcome of future negotiations on the draft law will be closely watched both domestically and internationally.