Netanyahu’s Coalition Faces Strain Amid Dispute

(MENAFN) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling alliance is grappling with mounting tensions that could potentially bring about its collapse, as disagreements deepen over proposed legislation to exempt ultra-Orthodox Jews, known as Haredi, from compulsory military service, according to local media reports.

A newspaper, citing insiders, revealed that Netanyahu has recently been engaged in what it termed a “containment battle,” attempting to preserve coalition stability for as long as possible ahead of the next scheduled elections.

Israel’s legislative elections are officially set for late October 2026, unless early polls are triggered. Sources indicated that Netanyahu has been working to reassure Aryeh Deri, leader of the ultra-Orthodox Shas Party, to secure his continued support within the coalition.

He is also trying to ease the position of Moshe Gafni, head of the Degel HaTorah Party, regarding the contentious draft exemption bill.

At the same time, the prime minister is urging far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to advance preparations for the 2026 national budget.

Ultra-Orthodox factions have consistently advocated for laws that would exempt Haredi men from Israel’s mandatory military service, a demand that has faced growing resistance from both government factions and the wider public.

Under Israeli law, the government must pass the state budget in the Knesset by the end of March to avoid triggering early elections.

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