Budget Battle: Israel's Coalition Navigates Draft Exemptions

The Israeli government is grappling with a contentious issue over military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox seminary students. Ultra-Orthodox parties have momentarily withdrawn their demand for a draft exemption law, securing daycare funding promises instead. As military tensions rise, the debate over military service exemptions remains unresolved.

In a heated political environment, Israel's government faces a critical challenge over conscription exemptions for religious seminary students. Ultra-Orthodox parties have temporarily backed down on their demand for a law exempting these students, allowing the government to focus on its forthcoming austerity budget.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, emphasized the necessity of passing the budget without new conscription legislation, despite the ongoing conflict. The proposed budget outlines 40 billion shekels in spending cuts, presenting a tough fiscal environment.

The ultra-Orthodox parties agreed to cease opposition to the budget after securing state promises for daycare funding, highlighting the ongoing balancing act in the coalition. With mandatory military service a contentious issue, the future remains uncertain amid growing military and social pressures.

(With inputs from agencies.)