Change Bloc advances bills in new Knesset, including reservist benefits and judicial reforms

After the 26th Knesset was sworn in, Change Bloc parties proposed bills on reservist benefits, a state inquiry into October 7, prime minister term limits, and repealing judicial overhaul laws. A vote to replace the Knesset speaker is expected next week.

On the opening day of the 26th Knesset, Change Bloc members submitted a series of legislative bills, attempting to influence the ongoing coalition negotiations with the ultra-Orthodox parties. Naftali Bennett proposed a law granting benefits to reservists, including 4,000 shekels per month for daycare, a 50% discount on electricity, water, and property taxes, and public transportation benefits. In contrast, Meir Porush and Yaakov Asher of United Torah Judaism submitted a proposal to regulate the deferral of military service for yeshiva students until age 26, along with a temporary order to freeze arrests of yeshiva students. Yair Lapid and the Democrats are advancing a legislative package that includes reversing judicial changes, limiting the prime minister's term, and establishing a state commission of inquiry. The article analyzes these moves as part of political negotiations, where each party seeks to present achievements to its voters while maintaining room for future compromises.