Deal advances as Knesset to debate Basic Law on Torah study next week
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
The Knesset is set to begin next week on a new Basic Law that would make Torah study a fundamental state value. The same deal between Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox parties also revives a bill reversing Matan Kahana’s kashrut reform.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Committee debates on Basic Law: Torah Study begin next week.
- The draft defines Torah study as a fundamental value in Israel.
- The law would place Torah study on par with other basic values.
- The kashrut bill would restore Rabbinical authority over certification.
- Both bills are part of Netanyahu's deal with ultra-Orthodox parties.
A political deal between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox parties is moving ahead, with the Knesset Constitution Committee set to hold marathon discussions next week on a new Basic Law: Torah Study. Under the proposed wording, Torah study would be recognized as a “fundamental value in the State of Israel” and placed on an equal footing with other basic values.
The draft says the aim is to create “balances of justice.” In practical terms, the move would elevate Torah study to the same status as values such as equality in sharing the burden.
As part of the same package, the coalition is also advancing the kosher-certification bill. That measure would restore exclusive control to the Chief Rabbinate and cancel the competition in the kashrut market created by former minister Matan Kahana’s reform.
According to the report, the kashrut bill had been expected to be dropped from the agenda, but it too is returning as part of Netanyahu’s arrangement with the ultra-Orthodox factions. The article was reported by Daphne Liel on N12 on June 25, 2026.
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