Netanyahu Government in Crisis as Shas Party Quits Over Military Draft Dispute
Tel Aviv, July 16 (The Trending People): In a dramatic escalation of Israel’s ongoing political crisis, the Ultra-Orthodox Shas party on Wednesday announced its exit from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, citing dissatisfaction with the lack of guarantees for religious military draft exemptions.
The move comes just a day after United Torah Judaism (UTJ), another ultra-Orthodox party, also walked out over the same contentious issue—leaving Netanyahu’s coalition fractured and vulnerable as Israel continues to grapple with its war in Gaza and rising public discontent at home.
“With a Heavy Heart, We Leave the Government”
Israeli newspapers quoted Shas party officials saying,
“With a heavy heart, we inform the public that we cannot stay in this government.”
The party, known for representing Sephardic Haredi Jews, accused the ruling coalition of failing to secure future exemptions from mandatory military service for yeshiva (religious seminary) students—an issue of paramount religious and cultural significance to the ultra-Orthodox community.
Despite their departure, Shas clarified they wouldn’t actively sabotage the coalition:
“We wouldn’t work to undermine the coalition government. We will also support them in some laws.”
Netanyahu’s Coalition at Risk
The back-to-back exits of Shas and UTJ—key religious allies in Netanyahu’s governing bloc—could reduce the coalition to a minority, severely weakening the Prime Minister’s ability to govern effectively.
This internal rift adds to the pressure Netanyahu is already facing due to:
- Widespread domestic protests
- A protracted and controversial war in Gaza
- Legal troubles and corruption allegations
Analysts say that without support from ultra-Orthodox factions, Netanyahu may struggle to pass critical legislation or even avoid a snap election.
The Conscription Controversy
At the heart of the crisis lies a long-standing and deeply polarizing issue in Israeli society—mandatory military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews.
While military service is compulsory for most Israelis, Haredi men enrolled in full-time religious studies have historically been exempt. But amid growing public frustration over perceived inequality, the Israeli Supreme Court last year ordered an end to this exemption, triggering political and social unrest.
Despite months of negotiation, parliament has failed to craft a new draft law that satisfies both the demands of the religious parties and the broader public.
Many secular Israelis argue that the current system is unfair, with mainstream citizens shouldering the burden of military service while ultra-Orthodox men are excused. On the other hand, ultra-Orthodox leaders insist that devotion to religious study is sacred and conscription could dilute their faith and lifestyle.
War With Hamas Adds Urgency
The timing of the crisis is particularly sensitive. Israel is still engaged in a prolonged war with Hamas in Gaza, now stretching beyond 21 months. Calls to expand military manpower have intensified, further fueling debate over the yeshiva exemptions.
The military establishment has warned that without reform, Israel could face serious challenges in maintaining its defense capabilities.
What Happens Next?
The exit of Shas and UTJ leaves Netanyahu in a politically precarious position. While they have signaled some willingness to support certain legislation from the outside, the coalition no longer has a clear majority—opening the door to a potential no-confidence vote or early elections.
Observers are now closely watching Netanyahu's next moves—whether he tries to renegotiate with the religious parties, reach out to secular or centrist groups, or attempt to push through a watered-down version of the conscription bill to salvage his government.
As the Israeli political landscape undergoes another seismic shift, the debate over religion, military duty, and national identity is once again at the forefront.