Yair Rosenberg, staff writer for The Atlantic, discusses how Israel's ultra-Orthodox military exemption could impact Netanyahu's power. The IDF's need for manpower in a two-front war highlights political tensions and coalition dynamics in Israel.
The military exemption for ultra-Orthodox Israelis poses a challenge to Netanyahu's power and coalition stability.
Growing discontent with Netanyahu's leadership is reflected in public protests and could impact Israel's political landscape.
Deep dives
The Growing Unpopularity of Benjamin Netanyahu
Following events that tarnished Benjamin Netanyahu's image as a strong leader in Israel, public sentiment towards him has shifted significantly. Widespread discontent with Netanyahu has led to protests in various cities, indicating a substantial portion of the Israeli population's dissatisfaction with his leadership. Despite this growing unpopularity, Netanyahu's coalition, especially the far-right politicians supporting him, remains intact, posing a challenge for any potential change in leadership.
The Issue of Military Exemptions for Ultra-Orthodox Israelis
A longstanding issue in Israel revolves around the military exemption granted to ultra-Orthodox Israelis. While mandatory military service is a norm for most citizens, ultra-Orthodox individuals have historically been exempted. This exemption has created divisions and resentment within Israeli society, particularly as the war effort and societal dynamics have brought this issue to the forefront. The debate over military exemptions has persisted for years, with recent developments indicating a growing urgency for change and potential consequences for the ultra-Orthodox community.
Challenges Within Netanyahu's Coalition and Implications for Israeli Politics
Recent events have highlighted internal divisions within Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition, primarily concerning the issue of military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Israelis. The missed deadline for addressing this issue has sparked tensions and raised questions about the coalition's stability. Netanyahu's political future and the effectiveness of his leadership are directly impacted by the coalition dynamics, with potential ramifications for Israel's post-war strategies and governance approach in Gaza. The delicate balance within the coalition may determine the course of Israeli politics and leadership transitions in the near future.
Benjamin Netanyahu has been able to count on the support from Israel’s ultra-Orthodox parties. But as the IDF needs additional manpower to continue a two-front war, the military exemption that the ultra-Orthodox enjoy is coming under scrutiny, and could fracture Netanyahu’s hold on power.
Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen.