CIA report warns of civil conflict and 'collapse' in Israel: Report

A CIA report has raised concerns over the potential for civil conflict and collapse within Israel. The report, titled "Fracture From Within," was penned by CIA experts who provided "alternative analysis." According to the report, tensions among Israelis are putting the country at risk of internal collapse or civil war.

The report specifically addresses the volatile situation leading up to the 27 October elections, during which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be contesting his political future. The authors of the report highlight that one of the most contentious political issues in Israel is the exemption from military service granted to ultra-Orthodox Israelis. This exemption has sparked deep divisions within Netanyahu's right-wing bloc.

A significant challenge arises from the fact that ultra-Orthodox parties, United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, have been staunch allies of Netanyahu since he first assumed the role of prime minister in 1996. The ongoing dispute concerning the exemption from military service has further strained relationships, casting doubt on whether Netanyahu will retain the support of these crucial allies in the lead-up to the elections.