Israeli Finance Committee Delays Tax Benefits for Hundreds of NGOs Amid Haredi Political Pressure

The Knesset Finance Committee is currently delaying tax benefits for approximately 250 nonprofit organizations, including those assisting war casualties, due to political pressure from Haredi parties, according to a report by Kan News on Tuesday evening. Three weeks ago, the Israel Tax Authority submitted a list of NGOs that met the criteria for tax benefits for their donors. However, the committee has not advanced these approvals because the Tax Authority is simultaneously reviewing about 100 additional NGOs suspected of subsidizing military service evaders, which disqualifies them from receiving benefits.

This dual process has resulted in an unprecedented delay in granting tax benefits, with sources describing the hold-up as politically motivated. Finance Committee Chairman Hanoch Milwitsky responded to the report by stating that the information was incorrect. The 100 NGOs under suspicion are expected to receive letters this week demanding declarations that they do not support evasion and to provide lists of students enrolled, so the military authorities can verify the claims.

In related news, the Basic Law on Torah Study was approved by the Knesset Committee and is scheduled for a plenary vote tomorrow. MK Idit Silman commented on the law, emphasizing the need to "shoot the foot of anyone blocking a road, starting with the rioters."