The Knesset on Monday, 12 Iyar, opens the two-month summer session, which is the final session prior to the Tishrei Yomim Tovim.

A number of bills are on the agenda as well as topics which may threaten the future of the coalition. This includes matters pertaining to religion and state and the Chief Rabbinate’s exclusive control over state kashrus. There is also the matter of the High Court decision to permit stores to open in Tel Aviv on Shabbos.

The chareidi parties have already announced they plan to introduce legislation that will neutralize the court’s decision. Kulanu party leader Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon has already announced he party will not be a partner in circumventing the High Court. HaGaon HaRav Shalom Cohen Shlita told Shas leader Aryeh Deri to wage an uncompromising war for Kedushas Shabbos.

However, it remains to be seen if chareidim succeed in obtaining the necessary support among coalition members. Alternatively, if their efforts to prevent implementation of the High Court ruling in Tel Aviv fail, it is unclear if they will break apart the coalition and compel early elections as they say will be the case.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)