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Breaking down the Israel coalition agreement: Key points and potential challenges
On June 13, 2021, after more than two years of political instability and four inconclusive elections, Israel`s parliament, the Knesset, approved a new government led by Naftali Bennett, the former leader of a right-wing party Yamina, and Yair Lapid, a centrist leader of Yesh Atid. The coalition, which includes eight parties from across the ideological spectrum, has a narrow majority of 61 out of 120 seats, and aims to end the long reign of Benjamin Netanyahu, the controversial prime minister who served for 12 years and faces corruption charges. The coalition agreement reflects the complex compromises, commitments, and risks that the diverse parties had to navigate to form a functional government. Here are some of the key points and potential challenges of the Israel coalition agreement.
Power-sharing
The coalition agreement establishes a rotational government in which Bennett will serve as prime minister for the first two years, followed by Lapid for the next two years. This arrangement reflects the relative strength and size of the parties, as Yamina has only six seats compared to Yesh Atid`s 17 seats. However, the agreement also stipulates that both leaders will consult and coordinate on major decisions, and that some ministers will hold dual portfolios or share responsibilities. This could create tensions or delays in decision-making, especially if there are disagreements on crucial issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Iran`s nuclear program, or the economy.
Policy priorities
The coalition agreement includes a broad range of policy goals that aim to address urgent needs and long-term challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the budget deficit, housing affordability, education reform, and environmental protection. Some of the proposed measures are ambitious and controversial, such as the expansion of public transportation on the Sabbath, the establishment of civil unions for same-sex couples, and the recognition of non-Orthodox Jewish denominations. The agreement also commits to maintaining Israel`s security, sovereignty, and strategic alliances, while pursuing peace and regional cooperation. However, some of the parties have opposing views on specific issues, such as settlements, annexation, or the status of Arab citizens, which could create tensions or even lead to a collapse of the coalition.
Powers of the opposition
The coalition agreement grants several powers to the opposition, which is led by Netanyahu`s Likud party. For example, the opposition will appoint the chairpersons of some Knesset committees, and will have veto power over some government appointments and legislation. This is meant to ensure a balance of power and prevent the government from becoming too dominant or divisive. However, some critics argue that these powers are too generous or might be used to disrupt the coalition`s agenda or weaken its cohesion.
Potential challenges
The Israel coalition agreement faces several potential challenges that could test its stability and viability. First, some of the parties have conflicting ideologies, visions, and interests, and might find it difficult to compromise or collaborate on sensitive issues. This could lead to crises or resignations that reduce the majority or force new elections. Second, the coalition agreement does not provide a clear roadmap for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which remains one of the most divisive and complex issues in the region. This could generate internal conflicts and external pressures from the international community, especially if there are major escalations of violence or settlement expansion. Third, the coalition agreement relies on some external support from parties that are not part of the coalition, such as the Arab Ra`am party. This support could be fragile and conditional, and might create tensions within the coalition or backlash from some sectors of the Israeli society.
Conclusion
The Israel coalition agreement marks a historic and fragile moment in Israel`s political landscape, as it brings together diverse parties that aim to govern a deeply divided and complex society. The agreement reflects the complex web of interests, ideologies, and challenges that the coalition had to navigate to form a government. However, the agreement also opens up new possibilities and hopes for addressing pressing issues and shaping a more inclusive and pluralistic society. The success of the Israel coalition agreement will depend on the ability of the leaders and parties to maintain a delicate balance of power, tackle complex issues with creativity and pragmatism, and navigate internal and external pressures with resilience and wisdom.
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