Netanyahu Survives Vote, Coalition Remains Fragile

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government survived its most serious challenge since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, as the Knesset voted 61-53 against a bill to dissolve parliament and call early elections. The vote followed a last-minute agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties, who had threatened to side with the opposition unless their demands for military service exemptions were addressed. This compromise grants Netanyahu at least six months of political stability, as no similar dissolution bill can be proposed in that period, but leaves the divisive issue of ultra-Orthodox military exemptions unresolved. Opposition leaders criticized the government for placing coalition politics above fairness to Israeli soldiers. Despite retaining power, Netanyahu's coalition remains fragile, with ongoing tensions and the possibility of new crises as conscription talks continue. Analysts suggest Netanyahu’s position is weakened, giving the opposition potential leverage for future challenges.