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Summer Session of the Knesset: Focus on Security and Foreign Policy
Three weeks before the conclusion of the summer session of the Knesset, attention has once again centered on issues of security and foreign policy. Criticism regarding the dismissal of the director of Shifa Hospital, renewed contacts regarding the Hamas agreement, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to Washington have overshadowed other issues. Even the ultra-Orthodox conscription issue seems to no longer pose a threat to coalition stability. However, the coalition’s instability remains unchanged.
Labor Party on the Verge of Disappearance
This week practically marked the end of the Labor Party, which helped found the state. Amidst radicalization of ideologies, Meretz and former deputy Yair Golan absorbed Labor, which had been attempting to appeal to centrist voters. The process of reshaping the political landscape continues.
Political Fallout for Netanyahu Due to Shifa Director’s Dismissal
The dismissal of the Shifa Hospital director has caused significant political fallout for Benjamin Netanyahu. Although the Prime Minister denies involvement in the decision, political responsibility still falls on him. However, this scandal currently does not have immediate consequences for his political future.
Long-term Implications: Hamas Agreement
From a long-term perspective, Netanyahu could suffer serious losses due to this decision. Avigdor Lieberman, head of Yisrael Beiteinu, has already called on the state comptroller to investigate the circumstances of the hospital director’s dismissal. This investigation could prolong, keeping the issue in the public consciousness.
Future Challenges: Hamas Negotiations
A potential breakthrough in negotiations with Hamas poses complex challenges for the Prime Minister. If Netanyahu fails to convince right-wing factions of the necessity of implementing the first stage of the agreement, it could lead to the collapse of the coalition. Additionally, Netanyahu is maneuvering between different forces ahead of his visit to the US and meeting with President Biden.
Opposition and Coalition Against Palestinian State
MPs including Avigdor Lieberman, Yuli Edelstein, and Zeev Elkin have formed a new alliance that has placed Netanyahu in a difficult position. They have garnered signatures from 61 MPs under a Knesset resolution rejecting the idea of a Palestinian state under any conditions. This decision complicates Netanyahu’s position in future negotiations in the US.
Ultra-Orthodox Draft: Reprieve for the Coalition
The coalition has received a temporary respite on the ultra-Orthodox conscription issue. Negotiations on the conscription law and funding for educational institutions will continue for some time. The conscription issue will be discussed during parliamentary recess and preparations for the autumn holidays.
New Political Movement: “A-Democratim”
This week in Israel, a new political party “A-Democratim” was formed through the merger of Labor and Meretz. This merger had been anticipated for some time, as both parties gradually moved leftward. Initial polls indicate that the new party could garner 11-12 mandates.
Preparation for Elections: Yesh Atid’s Initiatives
Yesh Atid is organizing events for repatriates, focusing on finance and healthcare in Israel. Opposition leader Yair Lapid plays a key role in these preparations for the upcoming elections.
Source: newsru
