Netanyahu coalition
Massive Protest in Jerusalem: Ultra-Orthodox Jews Rally Against Military Conscription Amid Coalition Crisis
Oct 31, 2025 12:19 am CST
Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men gathered in Jerusalem to protest against mandatory military service, highlighting a growing crisis in Netanyahu's coalition government. The demonstration follows the Israeli Supreme Court's ruling that ended religious exemptions, threatening political stability as ultra-Orthodox parties warn they may withdraw support unless exemptions are legally protected. Despite increased enlistment, the issue remains divisive in Israeli society with approximately 66,000 ultra-Orthodox men currently exempt from service.
Israeli Parliament Advances West Bank Annexation Bill Despite International Opposition
Oct 23, 2025 02:29 am CST
The Israeli parliament has taken a preliminary step toward annexing the occupied West Bank by narrowly approving a bill that would apply Israeli law to the territory. This controversial move comes despite international legal objections, US President Trump's opposition, and warnings from Arab allies including the UAE. The legislation, which still requires three additional votes to become law, passed without support from Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party but received backing from right-wing coalition members.