Knesset Approves 'Budget of War' Amid Hostage Crisis

Israel's Knesset approved the contentious 2025 state budget in a turbulent session marked by protests over hostages in Gaza. The 66-52 vote avoided snap elections, while hostages' families and opposition expressed concerns. The military resumed its offensive against Hamas after ceasefire collapse.

In a dramatic session, Israel's parliament approved the long-stalled 2025 state budget on Tuesday, highlighting deep national divides over hostages held in Gaza. The vote saw the Knesset pass the budget by a 66-52 margin, narrowly averting snap elections that would have been triggered without approval by March 31.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich dubbed it a 'budget of war', as families of Gaza hostages, accompanied by opposition lawmakers, displayed signs in protest. They advocated for the 59 individuals captured since the attack by Hamas on October 7, with about 24 believed to remain alive.

Protesters outside attempted to block parliamentary members, sparking comments on freedom of expression from Knesset speaker Amir Ohana. Meanwhile, Israel's military operations against Hamas resumed, leading to further turmoil and calls for renewed negotiations to recover hostages and fallen soldiers.

(With inputs from agencies.)