Opposition Bloc Plans Knesset Control Post-Election

Leaders of Israel's "Change Bloc" coalition met recently to strategize for controlling the Knesset immediately following the upcoming elections, even before forming a new government. Their primary goal is to elect a new Knesset Speaker, replacing Amir Ohana, to gain control over the legislative agenda and proceedings. This move is seen as a crucial first step to neutralize the outgoing coalition's power and prevent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from dictating the political and legislative direction.

The plan involves leveraging the transition period after the election but before a new government is sworn in. By securing a majority of 61 Knesset members, the bloc aims to elect a new Speaker, which would grant them significant power over which bills are brought to a vote and when. This control could enable them to advance key legislation, such as a law barring individuals facing criminal charges from forming a government, establishing an inquiry committee for the October 7th events, or even initiating Knesset dissolution if government formation fails.

Furthermore, the bloc intends to gain control over Knesset committees, particularly the Arrangements Committee, which determines the composition of other temporary committees. Control here would allow them to dictate the pace of legislation, advance their own bills, block coalition initiatives, and potentially cut off funding for the outgoing government by controlling the Finance Committee.

However, the current coalition is not without recourse. They can utilize procedural and legal tactics to delay or obstruct the opposition's takeover. The current Speaker, Ohana, could delay votes on his replacement, use filibusters, or drag out proceedings. The coalition may also appeal to the Supreme Court, arguing that significant changes during a transition period are unconstitutional and undermine public trust. They also plan to delegitimize the opposition's moves, particularly by highlighting their reliance on Arab party support.

Historical precedents for such power struggles exist, including former Speaker Yuli Edelstein's refusal to hold a vote for his replacement, which eventually led to his resignation after a High Court appeal. In another instance, MK Miki Zohar, heading the Arrangements Committee in the 24th Knesset, refused to convene it, leading to legislative paralysis until concessions were made, including the formation of a special committee for Arab affairs led by Mansour Abbas.