Israel's Knesset to Vote on NIS 662 Billion State Budget for 2026 Amid Political Tensions
Israel's Knesset will vote on the 2026 state budget, totaling NIS 662 billion, on Monday. If approved, the budget will proceed to the Finance Committee for revisions before further readings. A failure to pass all readings by the end of March will result in the Knesset's dissolution and trigger elections.
Defense spending is set at NIS 112 billion, up from NIS 90 billion. The budget vote occurs amid a standoff with haredi parties over a draft conscription bill, which has led to threats of withholding budget support.
Despite these tensions, reports suggest haredi parties may back the budget in its first reading, contingent on the advancement of the draft law. Discussions on the draft bill are scheduled for the following Tuesday. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the budget, claiming it favors corrupt parties and neglects working citizens.
