Netanyahu's Budget Battle: Coalition Challenges Amid Economic Strain

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged coalition partners to support his government's 2025 budget amid rebellions. Undergoing prostate recovery, he prioritized budget approval despite threats from hardline rebels and ultra-Orthodox parties. The proposed wartime austerity package aims to boost state revenues but faces internal coalition conflicts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, recovering from prostate surgery, urged his coalition partners to support the 2025 budget. Despite medical advice, he returned to the Knesset to secure the bill's approval, navigating challenges from hardline rebels who threatened to undermine the legislation.

Netanyahu's coalition, the most right-leaning in Israel's history, faces internal tension with rebels demanding changes, including funding increases for Israeli police and military enlistment legislation for ultra-Orthodox communities. The budget, incorporating tax hikes and spending cuts, narrowly passed initial votes but requires further approval by January.

Amid economic strain post-Hamas attacks, Netanyahu strengthened his coalition, including opposition figure Gideon Saar, as Israel grapples with inflation and stagnating economic growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)