Israel’s government is run by a prime minister who is elected by the Knesset. Generally, prime ministers serve for four years. However, prime ministers’ terms can be shortened if a vote of no confidence is taken in the Knesset. If this happens, the Knesset will name a replacement candidate. The replacement candidate will then have the opportunity to form his or her own government.

Political power in Israel has traditionally been held by Jewish men, with Ashkenazim enjoying particular advantages. However, Mizrahim have gained representation in recent decades. Women are allowed to hold political office, but they are underrepresented in key leadership positions. Moreover, many conservative communities remain hostile to women. For example, Shas and United Torah Judaism both excluded women from their candidate lists in the 2020 elections. Despite this, Ra’am was elected as the first female Knesset member in Israeli history.

The Knesset is Israel’s unicameral parliament. Its role is to enact laws and oversee government work. Its members have the power to remove the President of the State Comptroller. Members of Knesset are elected in general elections once every four years. So far, twelve Knessets have served full four-year terms. However, the fourth Knesset, which was especially short-lived, lasted only a year and nine months. Historically, Israeli governments have been made up of coalitions of multiple political parties.

The current government in Israel is at a crossroads. The government is divided and the prime minister must find a way to resolve the crisis. Netanyahu will likely face a new election and will likely be forced to dissolve the Knesset.