Netanyahu Promises Support for Defector Law but Leaves Knesset Before Vote

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured Defense Minister Israel Katz that he would publicly support the defector law and participate in the Knesset vote. However, minutes before the vote began, Netanyahu left the chamber, according to political analyst Michael Shemesh from Kan News. Katz had delayed submitting his letter of support for days, and Netanyahu promised to attend the plenary session to secure Katz's backing and advance the legislation. Both arrived together at the Knesset for the vote, but Netanyahu exited shortly before the vote started and did not participate. The Prime Minister's office stated that Netanyahu had to leave due to an urgent diplomatic phone call. Despite Netanyahu's absence, the defector law was approved by the Knesset. Shemesh's report highlights that Netanyahu's withdrawal came after his commitment to Katz to attend and support the vote as part of efforts to ensure the law's passage.