Another setback for Israel’s eight-party government: A MP from the left-liberal Meretz party announced on Thursday that he was leaving the coalition. This means that Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s government has only a minority of 59 out of 120 seats in parliament. The opposition, led by ex-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, could theoretically lead to a dissolution of parliament and new elections.
Member of parliament Ghaida Rinawie Zoabi justified her step, among other things, with the actions of the Israeli police during the recent clashes on the Temple Mount (Al-Haram Al-Sharif) in Jerusalem. In her letter of resignation, she was also shocked by police brutality at the funeral of an Al-Jazeera journalist who was murdered in Jerusalem on Friday.
Bennett’s eight-party coalition lost its slim majority in the Knesset last month after a member of the ruling Yamina party resigned. She survived two votes of no confidence.
Law that dissolves parliament
The opposition could introduce a law next Wednesday that would dissolve parliament. If it failed, the advance would be blocked for six months. Even if it succeeds, it will take three more readings, for which the opposition will need the votes of at least 61 of the 120 MPs.
Arab party in government for the first time
Bennett’s government was sworn in in mid-June last year. The protracted political crisis in Israel, with four elections within two years, came to an end for the time being. The coalition was supported by a total of eight parties from right to left – including an Arab party for the first time.
The Raam Arab party temporarily suspended its coalition membership last month amid clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians on the Temple Mount.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
