Netanyahu Faces Backlash Over Draft Law Spin Ahead of Likud Primaries

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked controversy within his Likud party and the broader political arena by promising a stringent military draft reform after the upcoming elections. His plan includes imprisoning those who refuse to enlist, to be implemented through a broad national government. However, opposition leader Avigdor Lieberman criticized Netanyahu for delaying action and urged him to convene the Knesset immediately to pass the law, a move Netanyahu has so far avoided.

The controversy intensified when Netanyahu instructed Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana to hold a contentious Finance Committee meeting during the parliamentary recess, approving an additional 360 million shekels for ultra-Orthodox institutions, including 268 million shekels for religious schools exempt from core curriculum studies. This decision, made just 80 days before the elections, drew sharp criticism and a petition to the High Court of Justice, though the process continues unabated.

Netanyahu’s maneuvers are seen by critics as a political spin to maintain his coalition and secure support ahead of the Likud primaries scheduled for August 17. Ministers loyal to Netanyahu have been publicly supporting his campaign, despite accusations of collective political self-sabotage. The political drama includes Defense Minister Israel Katz’s live dismissal of Central Command Chief Avi Blot and unprecedented public rebukes within parliamentary committees.

Further embarrassment surrounds the nomination of attorney Michael Rebilov as State Comptroller, a move recommended by the High Court but fraught with political tension. The State Comptroller’s office remains paralyzed, delaying critical reports such as those on victims of the Nova disaster. Meanwhile, some Likud members have been accused of politicizing the military and judiciary, deepening internal divisions.

As the August primaries approach, Netanyahu’s strategy to delay the vote and consolidate power faces increasing scrutiny. The political spectacle unfolding promises intense factional battles and potential upheaval within Likud and the wider Israeli political landscape.