Coalition on the Brink: Agudat Israel’s Dramatic Announcement

Agudat Israel Declares Support for Knesset Dissolution

Despite ongoing negotiations between the Haredi factions and Likud to avert the dissolution of the Knesset, the Agudat Israel faction has stated that they will support a proposal for dissolution. They expressed concerns regarding the absence of a written draft and specific details for a law governing the status of yeshiva students. In a statement, Agudat Israel emphasized their commitment to follow the directives of the Council of Torah Sages, indicating their position to vote in favor of the dissolution if the proposal is brought to a vote.

Stance from Shas and Degel HaTorah

In contrast, representatives from Shas and Degel HaTorah announced that they would not support the dissolution of the Knesset. After extensive talks with Yuli Edelstein, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, the two factions reached understandings regarding the principles of a proposed law aimed at safeguarding the status of yeshiva students. They decided to postpstart the vote on the dissolution to the following week to allow for further refinement of the law’s draft.

Edelstein’s Confidence in Legislative Progress

Before the Knesset discussion, MK Yuli Edelstein expressed optimism, proclaiming that after prolonged discussions, they arrived at consensus on the foundational elements for a recruitment law proposal. He reiterated his stance that only a legitimate and effective law that expands the recruitment base for the IDF would proceed from his committee. Edelstein described this progress as a historic moment and indicated the committee would soon begin discussions on the law to advance it towards second and third readings.

The situation is fluid, and further developments regarding the Knesset’s fate and legislative initiatives are anticipated in the coming days, reflecting the ongoing complexities within the Israeli political landscape