Netanyahu Prioritizes Ultra-Orthodox Bloc Over Military and Legal Reforms 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 tensions. The final week encapsulated the government's priorities: unwavering support for the ultra-Orthodox bloc, advancing controversial judicial reforms during wartime, and sidelining military concerns. Despite the right-wing government’s claim to prioritize security, the ongoing military manpower shortage and the failure to address the burden on soldiers have raised questions about what "right-wing" truly means in this context.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deliberately delayed resolving the contentious issue of equal military service burden for ultra-Orthodox citizens, even as soldiers and their families suffered under the strain. Only in the final days before dissolution did the Knesset pass a lenient law on draft exemptions, signaling Netanyahu’s intent to preserve his political alliance with the ultra-Orthodox and religious Zionist blocs at all costs, even at the expense of his own supporters.

The government also avoided establishing a state commission to investigate the October 7 massacre, despite public outcry and political pressure. Netanyahu’s refusal to authorize such an inquiry, citing wartime considerations, has left many fearing that the truth will never be fully uncovered. Meanwhile, the military chief of staff, appointed by Netanyahu, was labeled a "leftist" by coalition members after warning that exemption laws harm the army’s operational needs.

Judicial reforms continued unabated, with legislation aimed at weakening the attorney general’s powers passing swiftly despite widespread criticism. The coalition’s focus on expanding political control over legal institutions overshadowed other pressing issues, including the war effort. The opposition remained fragmented and ineffective, failing to mount a significant challenge to the government’s agenda.

Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, Netanyahu appears to be preparing for potential defeat by consolidating his bloc and focusing on maintaining influence without necessarily holding power. His strategy prioritizes the ultra-Orthodox and religious right-wing factions, even as broader public confidence in his leadership and the right-wing’s security credentials wanes. The political landscape remains deeply polarized, with judicial reform and military service burden set to dominate the upcoming electoral debate.