Story perspectives

Israel Knesset Dissolves, Ultra-Orthodox Reforms Spark Protests

7/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel's parliament dissolved on July 17, ending a full four-year term, the first since 1988.
The Knesset approved a reform allowing ministers to ignore the attorney general’s opinions, weakening oversight.
A basic law made Torah study a state value, gave draft evaders immunity, and sparked IDF chief protests.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced a 2.4 billion-shekel settlement package.
Polls show 66 % oppose the Torah-study law and 61 % want ultra-Orthodox parties excluded.

History

Historical Context

Since the 1977 ‘Mahapach,’ when Menachem Begin’s Likud secured 46 Knesset seats and formed the first right-wing government with the National Religious Party and Agudat Yisrael, religious parties gained coalition power and shaped draft-exemption laws. That legacy underpins today’s basic law elevating Torah study to state status and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s 2.4-billion-shekel settlement plan.

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Story summary

Israel's parliament dissolved on July 17, ending a full four-year term, the first since 1988.
The Knesset approved a reform allowing ministers to ignore the attorney general’s opinions, weakening oversight.
A basic law made Torah study a state value, gave draft evaders immunity, and sparked IDF chief protests.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced a 2.4 billion-shekel settlement package.
Polls show 66 % oppose the Torah-study law and 61 % want ultra-Orthodox parties excluded.

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