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

Concurrently, a notable shift is occurring within the Israeli opposition regarding potential government formations. Opposition leaders, such as Gadi Eisenkot, are increasingly vocal in their stance against forming a government that would depend on the support of Palestinian Arab parties. This position is attributed to a significant alteration in Israeli public opinion in the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, which has rendered cooperation with Palestinian parties politically unviable and costly for those seeking to form a government.

The conscription issue has long been a point of contention between secular Israelis and the ultra-Orthodox community, which seeks to maintain its traditional way of life, including extensive study of religious texts, often at the expense of military service. The Gaza war has amplified these tensions, with many Israelis questioning the fairness of exemptions while others are actively engaged in combat. The political implications of these disputes could impact the stability of Netanyahu's government and the electoral prospects of the ultra-Orthodox parties.

The opposition's hardening stance against including Palestinian parties reflects a broader trend of political polarization in Israel, particularly following the Hamas attacks. The attacks have heightened security concerns and fostered a nationalistic sentiment that makes alliances with parties perceived as not fully aligned with Israeli security interests politically perilous. This strategic recalibration by opposition figures aims to position themselves as viable alternatives to Netanyahu's government, while navigating the altered public mood.