The strikes from Oct 2-4 would be the longest period of action so far.

The strikes come less than two months out from what is expected to be a close-run government election on Oct 14.

With long-serving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing his gravest domestic crisis, Israel's military took its first known internal disciplinary action over the protests.

The unprecedented five-day stoppage over pay and staffing is the latest in eight months of industrial action across the NHS, which is already reeling from a vast pandemic backlog.

Britain's labour market remains tight, forcing companies to raise hourly wages, offer one-off bonuses, provide free food and give other benefits to attract and retain staff.

The coalition says its goal is to balance the powers of the government, legislature and judiciary by reining in a Supreme Court they see as too interventionist.

At least five unions have raised concerns, arguing health workers could be disadvantaged.

Hartal Doktor Kontrak also asks to be made the 'middle point' between the ministry and government contract doctors.

Patient care services at health clinics and hospitals, and all scheduled elective procedures, have been running as usual.

Department director Dr Aman Rabu says action will be taken as directed by the health ministry.

The deputy prime minister says contract doctors should be accorded fair treatment and their welfare protected according to government service procedures and schemes.

The health director-general says problems need to be dealt with through joint involvement.