The coalition is considering amending the Basic Law: Torah Study to include a clause that explicitly recognizes the value of military service and honors IDF fighters, according to a political source. The move comes amid ongoing controversy over the bill, which already equates full-time Torah study with IDF service.
The coalition is considering an amendment to the controversial Basic Law: Torah Study that would add a clause explicitly recognizing the value of IDF service and honoring the sacrifices of fighters, according to a political source. The proposal comes as the bill, which equates full-time Torah study with military service, continues to face sharp criticism from secular and reservist groups concerned about equal burden-sharing.
As The Zioneer has reported, the Basic Law has advanced through several legislative stages over the past month. On June 10, the Knesset passed a preliminary vote on the bill. On July 1, the legislation was set for its first reading in the plenum. Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz previously indicated that alternative wordings were being considered, and on July 5, MK Itzik Saidian called for prioritizing those who serve in the military as a supreme value in the law.
The proposed addition of a clause recognizing IDF service could be an attempt to soften the bill's impact and address criticism. However, critics argue that the core equation of Torah study with military service remains problematic. The coalition has not yet finalized the wording, and discussions are expected to continue. The bill has also drawn international criticism, with some allies reportedly sanctioning Israeli ministers over the legislation.
2 developments
- DevelopingEmerging compromise on Israeli Basic Law: Torah Study debate
- DevelopingKnesset committee advances Basic Law equating Torah study with IDF service
- DevelopingProposed Basic Law equating Torah study with national service draws fire from allies
- DevelopingDaphna Liel: First report — New Basic Law: Torah Study grants equal rights to Torah learners and IDF servicemembers
Source and signal
- Internal intake