Israel's Knesset and Government Power Split Amidst Political Stalemate

Israel's 26th Knesset has been sworn in, but a new government has yet to be formed, creating a power division. The "change bloc," led by Gadi Eisenkot, holds a majority in the Knesset, while caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government retains executive power. This split means legislative control, including setting the agenda and approving budgets, rests with the change bloc, while the government manages ministries and security, albeit with limitations.

The change bloc secured a significant early victory by approving the establishment of the Knesset's Organizing Committee, headed by MK Roi Folkman. This committee is crucial as it determines the composition of permanent Knesset committees and can form temporary ones, including the powerful Finance and Foreign Affairs and Defense committees. However, the bloc's full control over the legislative agenda is currently limited by Amir Ohana, the Likud Speaker of the Knesset. A key next step for the change bloc is the upcoming vote to replace Ohana with Matan Kahana. If successful, the bloc will control the Knesset leadership, the Organizing Committee, and the two senior committees, consolidating its legislative power.

Further plans for the change bloc include establishing additional temporary committees, with a priority on repealing legislative changes enacted by the previous government, particularly those affecting the judicial system and the role of the Attorney General. The Finance Committee, now chaired by Liran Avishar Ben-Hurin, is expected to scrutinize government budget requests and transfers more closely. This could hinder the government's ability to manage its finances, especially as the end of the calendar year approaches and a potential continuing budget (one-twelfth of the previous budget per month) looms if a new budget isn't approved.

The Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, to be headed by Avigdor Lieberman, will also gain prominence. This committee oversees the IDF, Shin Bet, and Mossad and can summon ministers and senior officials for confidential discussions. Lieberman has already indicated his intention to summon the head of the Shin Bet and the Police Commissioner to discuss alleged foreign influence in elections. He also plans to examine security issues, including the disagreements between the IDF and Netanyahu regarding the approach to Iran.

Netanyahu's caretaker government faces significant constraints. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has warned that a caretaker government must exercise "restraint and moderation" in all non-urgent decisions. Any proposed decision requires a legal opinion addressing these limitations, and any action outside of routine management needs legal consultation. Furthermore, the government lacks a Knesset majority, making any legislative initiative or budget transfer dependent on its political rivals. The current situation presents a prolonged period of divided power, with the Knesset majority operating against the government.