Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel Opposes Basic Law on Torah Study, Challenging Coalition Majority

Deputy Foreign Minister and Knesset member Sharren Haskel announced she will vote against the Basic Law on Torah Study in its first reading, joining several coalition MKs who have already declared opposition. This development complicates the coalition's efforts to secure a majority for one of its flagship bills aimed at formalizing the status of Torah study.

Haskel emphasized that she values Torah as a foundational element of Israel's identity and Jewish heritage, calling it the historical justification for the state's existence. However, she criticized the timing and context of the bill's promotion, which she said coincides with a package designed to grant benefits to those who do not serve in the military.

She argued that laws indirectly facilitating military service exemptions harm national security and social cohesion, accusing ultra-Orthodox factions of politicizing Torah study for improper political motives. Haskel concluded by stating she refuses to participate in what she called cynical exploitation of Torah and tradition, affirming her opposition to the bill despite her respect for Torah and Jewish tradition.

Other coalition MKs opposing the bill include Moshe Solomon, Dan Illouz, Yuli Edelstein, and Avi Maoz. Their dissent highlights growing challenges within the coalition to pass legislation related to the status of Torah study amid ongoing political and security concerns.