Ultra-Orthodox lawmakers are set to support the state budget in its initial reading, easing tensions within the governing coalition after days of disputes over military draft exemptions. While most ultra-Orthodox factions have agreed to back the budget following approval from senior Lithuanian rabbis, some members of Agudat Israel remain opposed or undecided. The coalition is still expected to secure enough votes for the budget to pass the first stage, despite these divisions.

The debate centers on proposed legislation to exempt ultra-Orthodox men from mandatory military service, a move that has sparked legal and political controversy. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has criticized the behind-the-scenes negotiations, accusing coalition figures of exerting improper pressure to advance the exemption bill. Procedural delays and uncertainty over the bill's legal viability have led ultra-Orthodox leaders to seek rabbinic guidance before supporting the budget.

The budget must pass its first reading this week to meet parliamentary deadlines and avoid a final vote on the eve of Passover. Failure to approve the budget by the end of March would result in the automatic dissolution of the Knesset and new elections.