Story perspectives

Ultra-Orthodox Pullout Triggers Knesset Dissolution, Netanyahu Faces Plea Deal

5/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew support from Benjamin Netanyahu after his coalition failed to pass a law exempting them, leading lawmakers to vote 110-0 to dissolve the 25th Knesset.
Coalition whip Ofir Katz submitted the dissolution bill, setting a timetable that requires 90 days after dissolution, making October 27 the latest election date.
President Isaac Herzog is mediating a plea deal in Netanyahu’s trial that could force his retirement before the election.

History

Historical Context

After Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s assassination on 4 Nov 1995, President Ezer Weizman tasked Shimon Peres with forming a unity government, prompting the 13th Knesset’s dissolution and early elections. In March 2024, Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition fell when ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew, leading to a unanimous 110-0 vote to dissolve the 25th Knesset, underscoring Israel’s fragile coalition instability and political volatility.

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Story summary

Ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew support from Benjamin Netanyahu after his coalition failed to pass a law exempting them, leading lawmakers to vote 110-0 to dissolve the 25th Knesset.
Coalition whip Ofir Katz submitted the dissolution bill, setting a timetable that requires 90 days after dissolution, making October 27 the latest election date.
President Isaac Herzog is mediating a plea deal in Netanyahu’s trial that could force his retirement before the election.

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