Israel's Budget Showdown: A Test of Leadership

Israel is in the middle of a tough money fight. The finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, is set to talk about the 2026 budget with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This isn't just any talk. It's a big deal that could change things. Smotrich has plans to help the economy and make life cheaper for people. But the government is split on many things. The war in Gaza, the truce, and even fights about who should serve in the military have caused big arguments. The budget must be approved by March, or Israel might have to hold new elections. That's a big risk. The vote is set for December 4th, but it won't be quick. It's going to be a hard negotiation. The government has been having a tough time agreeing on things. With so many different groups and opinions, finding a middle ground won't be easy. This budget fight could be a big test for Netanyahu and his team.