Netanyahu's ultra-Orthodox alliance shows signs of fracture before crucial election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing alliance, which has long depended on ultra-Orthodox parties, is facing growing signs of fracture ahead of a crucial election. Recent protests by ultra-Orthodox Jewish men against the arrest of draft dodgers have exposed deep divisions within Netanyahu's right-wing bloc, particularly over the issue of military conscription for ultra-Orthodox men.

The long-standing arrangement has been contentious, with ultra-Orthodox men traditionally exempt from compulsory military service to pursue religious studies in yeshivas. However, the recent war in Gaza has intensified pressure to end this exemption, leading to the detention of dozens of young men accused of evading service and triggering mass protests.

Two key ultra-Orthodox parties, United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, have become increasingly dissatisfied with Netanyahu's government, questioning their partnership and considering joining an alternative government led by Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu's main challenger. The rift between Netanyahu's allies and the ultra-Orthodox has raised questions about the future of the alliance and the potential for a new political arrangement that could reshape Israel's right-wing coalition.