Why Did Israel's Netanyahu Lose a Key Coalition Partner?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Shas party has announced its departure from the Netanyahu coalition, igniting intense discussions over military conscription exemptions for religious students. With protests escalating, the implications of this decision could reshape Israel's political landscape. What does this mean for the future of Netanyahu's government?
Key Takeaways
- Shas party exits Netanyahu's coalition government.
- Protests over military conscription exemptions are escalating.
- Netanyahu faces challenges leading a minority government.
- UTJ party also resigned over similar issues.
- Parliament is struggling to draft a new conscription bill.
London, July 16 (NationPress) The Ultra-Orthodox Shas party of Israel declared its departure from the coalition government led by Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday.
Reports from Israeli media indicate that the Shas party's exit is a response to the government's inability to ensure continued military conscription exemptions for religious students.
In a statement, representatives from the Shas party expressed, “It is with great sadness that we announce our decision to leave this government.”
The departure of the Shas party has left Netanyahu's coalition in a precarious position, complicating his ability to govern as a minority amidst ongoing domestic protests.
Despite their exit, the Shas party asserted, “We will not work to undermine the coalition. We will continue to support them on certain legislative matters.”
Just a day prior, another ultra-Orthodox party, United Torah Judaism (UTJ), had also resigned due to the same contentious issue, igniting heated discussions across the nation following over 21 months of conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Although ultra-Orthodox seminary students have traditionally been exempt from compulsory military service, there is growing frustration among many Israelis who feel the burden of service is disproportionately placed on the general populace.
Leaders within the ultra-Orthodox community argue that a commitment to studying sacred texts is essential, fearing that military service would deter their youth from pursuing a religious path.
Last year, the Israeli Supreme Court mandated an end to the exemption. Since then, Parliament has been attempting to formulate a new conscription bill, though efforts have repeatedly failed to satisfy both Shas and UTJ.
Point of View
It is crucial to report on the unfolding political dynamics in Israel with a focus on balance and clarity. The exit of the Shas party from Netanyahu's coalition highlights the tensions within the government concerning military service exemptions. This situation demands careful scrutiny as it could significantly impact the governance and social fabric of the nation.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Shas party to leave the coalition?
The Shas party's exit was primarily due to the government's failure to secure future exemptions from military conscription for religious students.
How does this affect Netanyahu's government?
The departure complicates Netanyahu's ability to govern, as he now faces challenges leading a minority government amidst rising protests.
What are the implications of military conscription exemptions?
The issue of exemptions has sparked widespread debate in Israel, with many citizens feeling that the burden of military service is unfairly distributed.
What other parties are involved in this issue?
Another ultra-Orthodox party, United Torah Judaism (UTJ), also resigned from the government over similar concerns regarding military conscription.
What is the current status of military conscription laws?
After a Supreme Court ruling last year, Parliament is attempting to draft a new conscription bill, but negotiations have yet to satisfy all parties involved.
