Ultra-Orthodox Win as Israeli Parliament Advances Draft Arrest Law in Netanyahu Deal

The Israeli Knesset began debating the draft law to freeze arrests of draft dodgers overnight, marking a significant victory for the ultra-Orthodox parties. The ultra-Orthodox insisted that this law be prioritized over other legislation, a demand the coalition accepted amid disputes over the legislative agenda. The final vote on the draft law is scheduled for 9:00 AM, despite warnings from the IDF Chief of Staff.

Simultaneously, the Knesset committee approved the second and third readings of a controversial law weakening the media, though a clause requiring free content for users was removed due to ultra-Orthodox opposition related to Sabbath observance and objectionable content. The Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee also approved extending mandatory military service from 30 to 32 months, short of the army's requested 36 months.

Earlier, the Knesset passed the Basic Law on Torah Study in a rapid legislative session, with 63 votes in favor and 52 against. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was absent from this key vote.

In exchange for advancing ultra-Orthodox legislation, Netanyahu seeks a loyalty declaration from these parties ahead of upcoming elections. This pledge aims to neutralize any speculation about ultra-Orthodox leaders aligning with other political figures, ensuring their campaign and public messaging support Netanyahu. Senior Likud officials acknowledged the political costs of this legislation but emphasized the necessity of securing the coalition's unity.

The coalition agreement includes advancing laws important to the ultra-Orthodox, such as the Basic Law on Torah Study and the draft arrest freeze, while also promoting legislation to weaken the Attorney General's role and the media. The ultra-Orthodox succeeded in placing their bills at the top of the legislative agenda, fulfilling their key demand.