Israeli Lawmakers Approve Initial Budget Boost Amid Gaza War

Israeli lawmakers have given initial approval for a 2024 budget increase to support war-affected reservists and displaced civilians. The bill, backed by ultra-Orthodox parties, passed narrowly and still requires two more approvals to become law. The issue highlights internal government unity challenges amid ongoing conflicts.

Israeli lawmakers have given preliminary approval to raise the 2024 budget framework to fund reservists and aid people displaced due to the Gaza war. The proposal, supported by ultra-Orthodox parties, passed by a 58-52 margin, according to the Finance Ministry.

The bill seeks to add 3.4 billion shekels ($906 million) to the 2024 budget. Ultra-Orthodox parties had threatened to boycott parliamentary votes in protest over funding disputes for their separate education system. The legislation needs two more votes to become law, highlighting unity challenges within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government amid the ongoing offensive against Hamas in Gaza.

The two religious parties, occupying 18 of the 120 parliamentary seats, demanded equal benefits for their schools as state-run ones. A temporary agreement saw them support the budget this time, but future votes remain uncertain. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized opposition members who voted against the adjustments, calling for national unity in funding evacuees and reservists.

(With inputs from agencies.)