Israel’s Knesset votes to dissolve itself; snap elections set

Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, approved a decision to dissolve itself in second and third readings during a session held this morning.

According to The Times of Israel, 62 lawmakers voted in favor of the decision, with no votes against or abstentions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who took part in the vote, also supported the dissolution of parliament.

Under the approved decision, the Knesset will suspend its activities and go into recess starting July 17. The dissolution of parliament will trigger early parliamentary elections, which are scheduled for Oct. 27.

During the recess, the Knesset will continue to operate only under special procedures. If necessary, a plenary session can be convened at the request of the government or at least 25 lawmakers.