Ultra-Orthodox Lawmakers Threaten Exit, Jeopardize Netanyahu Government

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in Israel faces a potential collapse and early elections after ultra-Orthodox coalition partners, notably from the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party, threatened to withdraw support over a stalled bill to exempt ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students from compulsory military service. The issue has created a major rift within the coalition, with ultra-Orthodox leaders demanding the passage of legislation to maintain the exemption, while other coalition members and the Israeli public express frustration over the unequal military burden amid the prolonged Gaza war. Senior rabbis from UTJ instructed their lawmakers to introduce a bill to dissolve the Knesset, and opposition parties are preparing to support this move, putting Netanyahu under pressure to resolve the dispute within a week. The ultra-Orthodox community, which comprises about 14 percent of Israel’s population, largely avoids military service and fears that conscription could lead to secularization, while the Israeli Supreme Court ruled the exemption illegal last year. Despite Netanyahu's promises, delays and internal coalition opposition have prevented new legislation from passing, and recent failed negotiations have escalated tensions. Although the coalition currently holds a majority, the departure of ultra-Orthodox factions could destabilize Netanyahu's government and trigger early elections.