Kotel Law Stalled in Knesset Committee Amidst Internal Disputes
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
A bill by MK Avi Maoz to regulate prayer at the Western Wall has been stalled by MK Simcha Rothman in the Constitution Committee. Rothman opposes a clause banning mixed-gender prayer services, despite coalition commitments. The bill aims to enforce rulings of the Chief Rabbinate, following a Supreme Court order for a Reform prayer plaza. Its delay raises concerns about the site's sanctity and the state's Jewish identity.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- MK Simcha Rothman has stalled the Western Wall bill in the Constitution Committee.
- The bill, proposed by MK Avi Maoz, aims to enforce Chief Rabbinate rulings at the Wall.
- Rothman opposes a clause banning mixed-gender prayer services at the southern plaza.
- The coalition had committed to advancing the legislation, which passed its preliminary reading.
- The delay follows a Supreme Court order for a Reform prayer plaza at the site.
A bill aimed at regulating prayer practices at the Western Wall, proposed by MK Avi Maoz, has stalled in the Knesset's Constitution Committee, chaired by MK Simcha Rothman. The bill, which seeks to ensure that all activities at the Western Wall adhere strictly to the rulings of the Chief Rabbinate, passed its preliminary reading but has since been held up. Rothman has reportedly refused to advance the bill to a vote, citing opposition to a clause that would prohibit mixed-gender prayer services at the southern plaza. This stance conflicts with the coalition's commitment to advancing the legislation. The controversy surrounding the Western Wall's prayer arrangements has been ongoing for years, particularly following a Supreme Court ruling eight months prior that mandated the government to facilitate the establishment of a Reform prayer plaza. MK Maoz reintroduced his bill in response to this ruling and public outcry, aiming to prevent what he describes as the 'desecration' of the holy site. Despite initial coalition efforts and the Prime Minister's Office's opposition, the bill successfully passed its preliminary reading. However, Rothman's personal reservations, based on his belief that some liberal Orthodox Jews wish to pray in mixed groups, have prevented further progress. The bill's delay is occurring despite calls to finalize its legislation immediately after the upcoming elections to preserve the sanctity of the Western Wall and the Jewish identity of the state, with concerns raised about ongoing 'desecration' by Reform women groups during Rosh Chodesh services.