Israel’s National Unity Party Proposes Cancelling Knesset’s Summer Recess Amid War

Tel Aviv [Israel], July 2: Israel’s National Unity party has submitted a bill to cancel the Knesset’s three-month summer recess due to the ongoing war. The party, led by Benny Gantz, stated that taking a break is inappropriate while 120 hostages are still held by Hamas, thousands are displaced, and security forces are actively serving.

The party emphasized the importance of continuing critical discussions on army manpower, including conscription for yeshiva students, extending service for active and reserve personnel, and rehabilitating northern communities after eight months of fighting. They argued that lawmakers should not go on vacation while soldiers are not.

This proposal follows a similar appeal from MK Oded Forer of the Israel Beitenu party to Knesset speaker Amir Ohana. The current Knesset session ends on July 28, with lawmakers scheduled to return on October 27 after the Sukkot holiday.

The bill also comes amid opposition leader Yair Lapid’s threat of mass resignation if Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara is dismissed. Lapid warned that her removal would reignite the controversial judicial overhaul led by Justice Minister Yariv Levin.