Netanyahu Prioritizes Ultra-Orthodox Bloc Amid Security and Judicial Crises Ahead of 2026 Elections

The Israeli Knesset has completed a full four-year term for the first time since 1988, concluding a tenure marked by intense political and social turmoil. The final week encapsulated the government's priorities: unwavering support for the ultra-Orthodox parties, advancing controversial judicial reforms during wartime, and sidelining the military's concerns. These developments set the stage for the 2026 elections.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, once hailed as Israel's security guardian, faces criticism as the right-wing government failed to deliver security following the October 7 attacks. The military warns of a shortage of 12,000 soldiers, yet Netanyahu continues to prioritize political deals with the ultra-Orthodox bloc over addressing the army's manpower crisis. Despite public calls for equal burden-sharing in military service, Netanyahu delayed legislation on this issue for years, only passing a lenient exemption law shortly before elections to maintain his coalition.

The government also dissolved the Knesset without approving a political commission to investigate the October 7 massacre, a move seen as an attempt to avoid accountability. Netanyahu dismissed military leaders’ warnings about laws undermining army discipline, framing the military as part of a "deep state" opposing him. Meanwhile, the coalition pushed ahead with sweeping judicial reforms aimed at weakening the attorney general's office, even amid war, prioritizing political power consolidation over national unity.

Opposition parties remained fragmented and ineffective, failing to challenge the coalition’s legislative agenda meaningfully. The laws passed are expected to remain in place regardless of the next government, as they enhance executive control over legal and media institutions. Netanyahu appears prepared for a possible electoral loss, focusing on preserving his right-wing bloc’s dominance within the Likud party and beyond.

This political strategy, emphasizing coalition survival over national security and social cohesion, raises concerns about Israel’s future stability as it heads into a critical election cycle.