Netanyahu has watched his political partners undermine the country’s war against the virus and spark a public backlash that threatens him at the ballot box. But political leaders have rarely been willing to challenge the system. Ultra-Orthodox support is critical as Netanyahu tries to form a majority coalition in favor of granting him immunity from corruption charges. Ultra-Orthodox leaders say their communities are being unfairly singled out and that a small minority is responsible for the troubles. Netanyahu, counting on the vaccination program to propel him to victory, has appeared unwilling or unable to take on his ultra-Orthodox allies.

Source: Egypt Independent January 28, 2021 06:00 UTC