Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has left the hospital earlier than recommended to participate in a key budget vote, just days after prostate surgery. Sources say his unexpected return was prompted by political pressure, particularly from far-right coalition partners.
Netanyahu appeared visibly fatigued as he took his place in the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) for the voting session. A senior coalition insider revealed to Walla news that the Prime Minister's hasty return was driven by mounting opposition from National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir's faction.
Latest Updates:
- Coalition secures tight majority after Agudat Yisrael's MKs Eichler and Roth unexpectedly abstain rather than vote against. Sources say this move was secretly arranged with Netanyahu last night.
- First opposition reservation rejected by 58-57 votes
- Ben Gvir votes with opposition, prompting coalition members to call for his dismissal
- Former Defense Minister Gallant absent from vote
Earlier today, Agudat Yisrael had insisted they would oppose the laws until legislation protecting yeshiva students' status was passed. However, a last-minute split within the party has provided crucial support through abstentions.
Netanyahu left hospital against medical advice to attend the vote, while MK Bismuth interrupted his mother's shiva (seven-day mourning period) to participate, receiving condolences from fellow lawmakers.
National Security Minister Ben Gvir had earlier suggested "the PM's associates shouldn't hassle him from hospital," claiming the police budget could be resolved immediately if "Smotrich would end his boycott and enter negotiations now."
The vote focuses on the Trapped Profits Law, which faces resistance from two coalition parties - the far-right Otzma Yehudit and the ultra-Orthodox Agudat Yisrael wing of United Torah Judaism. Both groups are leveraging their support to push for their own demands.
The dramatic session continues with further votes expected on the state budget package.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir today, calling his opposition to a key financial bill "the height of irresponsibility" amid Israel's ongoing war.
"There is no greater irresponsible folly than destabilizing the coalition or risking the collapse of a right-wing government at this time," Netanyahu stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel's economy has shown remarkable resilience during what he described as "the longest and most expensive war in Israel's history." He pointed to the stability of the shekel, stock market performance, and tech sector as evidence of successful economic management.
Addressing Ben Gvir's specific complaints about police funding, Netanyahu countered that the National Security Ministry has received "significant budget increases" over the past two years, with additional funding allocated in the 2025 budget.
Netanyahu urged all coalition members to unite behind the 2025 budget, which he said was developed in consultation with business leaders, labor unions, and local authorities.
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