Coalition shake-up in Israel: Netanyahu loses majority as key partner exits; ultra-orthodox party Shas walks out over military draft dispute

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ’s government lost its parliamentary majority on Wednesday after the ultra-orthodox Shas party announced its decision to quit the ruling coalition.

Shas cited disagreements over a proposed law related to military draft exemptions for religious students. The party opposes legislation that could limit the broad exemptions traditionally granted to ultra-orthodox men.

The departure of Shas follows the earlier exit of another ultra-orthodox party, United Torah Judaism (UTJ), which quit the coalition earlier this week over the same dispute.

With both religious parties now outside the government, Netanyahu is left leading a minority coalition, complicating his ability to pass legislation and manage internal pressure from far-right allies.

However, Shas clarified that it does not intend to destabilize the coalition. The party said it may still vote with the government on certain bills and does not plan to push for the government’s collapse.

The political setback comes as Israel engages in negotiations with Hamas over a US-backed ceasefire proposal in Gaza. While the government shake-up does not directly halt talks, it leaves Netanyahu more dependent on his remaining far-right partners, who oppose any deal that leaves Hamas operational.

For now, Netanyahu remains in office but with weakened political control.