Several dates are currently being floated in Israel's political system, but only two appear realistic: Sept. 1 and Oct. 27. The Haredi parties have also raised the possibility of holding the elections on Oct. 6, as a kind of pointed “trolling” of Netanyahu. If the coalition manages to prevent the Knesset from dissolving itself before May 27, it could dissolve itself while still holding the election on the original date.
The opposition has submitted three bills to dissolve the Knesset, while Netanyahu has made clear to the ultra-Orthodox parties that there is no majority for the draft exemption law. Despite the deadlock and the ultra-Orthodox threat to vote with the opposition next week, the coalition is preparing efforts to delay and water down the move.
MK Simcha Rothman is seeking to revive the amendment to the law that he sponsored. The bill would determine that only Orthodox conversion will be recognized for the purpose of defining a person as Jewish. “Faithful to the heritage that preserved the identity of the Jewish people for thousands of years.”
If he decides to act, the US president will pull Israel into a state of alert that will delay the Knesset’s dissolution and lead to the election being held as scheduled in October. If Trump chooses not to strike Iran again, Netanyahu will lead Israel to an election on Sept. 1. Sources who have spoken with Netanyahu recently say the prime minister is leaning toward moving up the election, partly due to the erosion of his security achievements
Former prime ministers announce merger of Yesh Atid and Bennett 2026 into a single party, with Bennett at the helm.
Haredi parties are refusing to support coalition votes as long as there is no progress on the Haredi draft law, while Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter abstained from a vote on splitting the Arrangements Law.
Former prime minister Naftali Bennett announced that two American political advisers and pollsters, George Birnbaum and Tony Fabrizio, have joined his campaign team.
Minister Miki Zohar's push to install Yair Netanyahu in key position triggers opposition revolt and accusations of corruption from former IDF chief.
The PM's associates are sending very clear messages stating that Netanyahu will not head to elections before the following objectives are met: the return of the hostages; ensuring that Hamas does not return to rule, and placing Gaza on a path to demilitarization. His circle also discusses reinforcing achievements against Lebanon, Syria, and Iran – and even the signing of several peace treaties.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticized the government, warning that “the harmful norms that have seeped into public institutions will be uprooted.” Addressing security officials, he added, “Do not be afraid, this government will soon be replaced.”
