Netanyahu's Government on the Brink: Corruption, Protests, and a Looming Vote

Israel's Netanyahu Faces Mounting Pressure Amidst Corruption Trial and Political Unrest JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing intense pressure as he navigates an ongoing corruption trial, widespread protests, and the looming threat of a vote to dissolve the government. CNN's Oren Liebermann provides a comprehensive overview of the situation, highlighting several key factors contributing to the crisis. Netanyahu has begun testifying in his corruption trial, years after pleading not guilty. This legal battle adds to the political turmoil. Simultaneously, large-scale protests are taking place across the country, reflecting public dissatisfaction with his leadership. Adding another layer of complexity, an arrest warrant has been issued for Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court on allegations of war crimes, which he has rejected. "The question is: why now?" Liebermann asks in the video. He points to the friction between Netanyahu's Likud party and the ultra-Orthodox religious parties as a critical factor. These religious parties are demanding broad exemptions from Israel's mandatory military draft, a demand that has intensified during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The military's need for more soldiers adds to the pressure on Netanyahu. The upcoming vote to dissolve the government is a pivotal moment. If the vote passes, it will trigger early elections, marking a significant shift in Israeli politics. However, Netanyahu's party controls the Knesset, allowing them to potentially delay the process for weeks. Even if the initial vote succeeds, it sends a clear message that the pressure on his government is intensifying. The situation underscores the complex interplay of legal, political, and social forces shaping Israel's future. The upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the country's path forward.