Israeli Knesset Faces Potential Dissolution Amid Coalition Tensions
The Israeli Knesset is set to undergo a first reading of a bill proposing its dissolution, as announced by coalition whip Ofir Katz. This move could potentially advance the election date from the current schedule of October 27. The bill, which requires three readings to pass, is part of a strategy by the coalition to control the timing of elections. The proposal comes amid a crisis within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition, particularly with the ultra-Orthodox parties over a contentious draft bill. The coalition's submission of its own dissolution bill is seen as a way to manage the election process. The bill suggests determining the election date during committee debates, and if passed quickly, could expedite the process. However, elections cannot occur within 90 days of the bill's approval, ruling out an August election. The coalition has been fast-tracking several controversial bills, aiming to pass as much legislation as possible before a potential dissolution.