Wednesday brought a fresh escalation in Israel's post-election political manoeuvring, with Gadi Eisenkot's bloc securing control of key Knesset committees and a sharp public exchange with Netanyahu over the transition of power. Meanwhile, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox protesters brought parts of Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh to a standstill, two people were shot in Taybeh, and former US President Donald Trump made fresh claims about the impact of American strikes on Iran.
Politics
The Knesset Arrangements Committee handed a significant win to the bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot, overruling Likud on the composition of several powerful panels. Avigdor Liberman was confirmed to chair the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee, while Liran Avisar Ben-Horin will head the Finance Committee. Analysts noted that Eisenkot's choice of Matan Kahana for Knesset speaker could complicate efforts to bring haredi parties into a future governing coalition, even as his bloc consolidates parliamentary influence. Separately, rival parties submitted dueling bills on IDF conscription, underscoring how contentious the issue remains. Tensions between Eisenkot and Netanyahu, now serving as transition prime minister, spilled into public view after Eisenkot sent an official letter urging the PM to show 'restraint and caution regarding dangerous moves' ahead of a new government's swearing-in, warning him not to 'violate the public's trust.' Netanyahu's office responded that instead of 'spreading fear and division,' responsibility was required, adding that Eisenkot had been invited to a security briefing he claims he was denied. Otzma Yehudit, meanwhile, submitted a bill to repeal the Oslo Accords and reassert Israeli control over Areas A and B, annulling all agreements signed under the Oslo framework. Separately, the security-political cabinet is set to reconvene on Sunday after a month-long hiatus.
Security
Two people were shot in Taybeh on Wednesday evening: a 27-year-old man remains in serious condition and a 15-year-old boy in moderate condition after suffering penetrating wounds. Both arrived at a local police station before being evacuated by Magen David Adom to Meir Medical Centre; police have opened an investigation into the circumstances. Separately, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox protesters from the 'Edah Haredit' community blocked Jerusalem's light rail line and Route 38 near Beit Shemesh in response to the arrest of three deserters near the Dead Sea. Police declared the demonstration illegal and moved to clear crowds using riot-dispersal measures, including a water cannon, while several light rail stations were closed and alternative routes advised. Border Police and regular units later reopened Route 38 to traffic.
International
Donald Trump claimed 'total victory' over Iran, asserting that Tehran would need 25 years to recover from recent American strikes and that he would not settle for a '93% victory.' He also praised Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, a day after the House blocked an impeachment effort against him. Separately, Israel approved a NIS 100 million partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America aimed at strengthening Jewish education and ties to Israel among the next generation, amid a noted dip in support for Israel among some diaspora communities. Chabad and ZAKA also launched a joint international emergency response, search and rescue unit intended to assist Jewish communities worldwide in times of crisis.
Other Developments
Tel Aviv Fashion Week returned this week, featuring released hostage Omer Shem Tov on the runway alongside 'Fragments,' a collection designed specifically for injured soldiers. In a separate and troubling development, a woman named Nora Mansour was fatally stabbed multiple times in her home in Tira; her husband is the prime suspect and was hospitalised after ingesting a toxic substance. Her death marks the 18th killing of a woman in Arab society this year, reigniting concern over the persistent rate of violence against women in these communities.
Media Consensus
Ynet, Walla and Israel Hayom consistently reported on the haredi protests and road blockages in Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh, while the Jerusalem Post and Times of Israel offered aligned but more analytical coverage of the Knesset committee battle, both noting Eisenkot's bloc gaining the upper hand and the potential complications posed by the speaker selection.
What to Watch
- Whether Sunday's security-political cabinet meeting signals renewed decision-making after weeks of inactivity
- How the standoff between Eisenkot and Netanyahu over security briefings and coalition timing develops
- Whether haredi protests over conscription enforcement continue to escalate and affect Jerusalem's transport network
Sources: Ynet, Walla, www.israelhayom.co.il, Times of Israel, Jerusalem Post
