Netanyahu races to keep promises to allies ahead of election

With Israel's parliament set to dissolve in the coming days, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government is engaged in a legislative sprint to pass several bills before the national elections scheduled for late October. Seven pieces of legislation are on the Knesset's agenda, each representing a priority for parties within Netanyahu's ruling coalition.

Netanyahu aims to solidify his alliances and enter the election campaign from a position of strength, despite opinion polls indicating potential difficulties in securing another term. The veteran leader faces public dissatisfaction, largely stemming from perceived failures that preceded Hamas's Oct. 7 attack and the subsequent war in Gaza.

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While they're busy with their coalition's survival, we're fighting for the country and for the interests of Israel's citizens.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the government's focus, stating on X, "While they're busy with their coalition's survival, we're fighting for the country and for the interests of Israel's citizens." A particularly contentious bill proposes exemptions from military service for students engaged in religious studies, a long-standing demand of ultra-Orthodox parties.

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The State of Israel shall recognise individuals who commit themselves to long-term Torah study as performing meaningful service for the benefit of the State and the Jewish people.

This proposed Basic Law: Torah Study has ignited widespread debate and protests. Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief and Netanyahu's main rival, argued on X that the legislative "marathon" is designed to pass laws that would be impossible to enact under a different government. His party, Yashar (Straight), claims it is the only one capable of forming the next government.

In return for supporting the military exemption bill, ultra-Orthodox parties are expected to back legislation from Netanyahu's Likud party, including a significant reform of the broadcasting sector. Supporters claim this reform will foster market competition, but critics decry it as an attempt to exert political control over the media and benefit pro-government outlets. Another bill under consideration seeks to reform the attorney general's status.

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The government is exploiting the final days of the Knesset's session to pass laws against the army.