Israel Approves 2026 Budget Draft

The Israeli parliament has given initial approval to a new budget for 2026.

This is a big deal because if the budget doesn't pass by the end of March, there might be an early election.

The government is divided, especially over a law about military service for religious students.

Some parties want these students to be exempt, while others think they should serve like everyone else.

The budget includes a lot of spending and a plan to control the country's debt.

The central bank thinks the budget's deficit target is too high.

The budget still needs more votes to become law, but for now, the government has avoided an early election.