Netanyahu Promises Support for Defector Law but Leaves Knesset Before Vote

An awkward incident unfolded in the Knesset during the vote on the Defector Law. Defense Minister Israel Katz had delayed submitting his letter of support for the bill for several days. According to journalist Michael Shemesh, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joined efforts to persuade Katz and promised publicly to support the law and participate in the plenary vote. However, just minutes before the vote, after Netanyahu and Katz entered the chamber together, Netanyahu abruptly left and did not take part in the vote. The Prime Minister's office explained that Netanyahu had to leave due to an urgent diplomatic phone call.