UTJ Chairman Visits Military Prison to Support Torah Students Detained for Learning
Uri Maklev, chairman of the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) faction, visited Military Prison 10 this morning and spoke exclusively to Kikar HaShabbat about the conditions and spiritual resilience of the detainees. These prisoners were arrested for studying Torah, and Maklev emphasized the injustice of their detention under Israeli military law. He described the courtroom scenes where many are charged solely for Torah study in the Jewish state, calling it a "denunciation against the Jewish people."
During his visit, Maklev met with prison commanders and detainees to assess their treatment and whether they could maintain a yeshiva routine. Although a full yeshiva schedule was not possible, he was impressed by the prisoners’ determination to continue learning. Their persistent requests led the prison administration to add an extra hour daily for study in a dedicated Beit Midrash room. The detainees also support each other spiritually, sharing Torah lessons and strengthening their communal mission.
Maklev linked the arrests to ongoing legislative efforts in the Knesset to pass a Basic Law protecting Torah study and to prevent such detentions. He expressed hope that discussions would resume soon and that these laws would provide relief. He stressed that the prisoners see themselves as part of a historic tradition of Torah scholars who suffered for their faith, comparing their situation to Jews imprisoned in Siberia for Torah study.
Responding to criticism of politicians visiting the prison, Maklev rejected claims that they were supporting criminals. He said they come with "heads held high" to show solidarity with those fulfilling a sacred mission. He sharply criticized political opponents who visit corrupt politicians in prison but condemn support for Torah learners. Maklev concluded that UTJ will continue to visit and support the detainees, honoring their spiritual dedication.
This visit is part of a broader UTJ campaign against the arrests of yeshiva students, including calls for a parliamentary inquiry into police conduct during protests. Meanwhile, public and political pressure is mounting for urgent legislation to end these detentions, with the Defense Minister and Government Secretary advocating swift action.
