Coalition explores changes to Jewish law study bill as lawmakers push back

Israel’s Knesset committee continued work this morning on a proposed Basic Law regarding the mandatory study of Jewish religious texts, moving forward with preparations for voting following the submission of amendments tomorrow. The legislation, which would constitutionalise requirements for Torah study in educational settings, has become a contentious issue within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition.According to reports, some coalition members are considering modifications to the bill’s current language. However, Moshe Gafni, the Haredi lawmaker who initiated the legislation, has made clear his position to Netanyahu: the law must be passed exactly as originally drafted, without alterations.The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions within the coalition over religious education policy. Haredi parties, which form a crucial part of Netanyahu’s government, view the constitutional protection of Torah study as essential to their communities’ interests. The proposed Basic Law represents one of their key legislative priorities in the current Knesset session.The committee’s advancement of the bill suggests it remains on track for full Knesset approval, though the coalition’s internal divisions over potential amendments could yet complicate the path to final passage. The next phase of voting is expected to begin after tomorrow’s deadline for amendments.

Source: Walla News — Original article in Hebrew.