Shas Party Backs Jewish Power's Muezzin Law Amid Tensions with Minister Ben Gvir

The Shas party announced it will support the "Muezzin Law" proposed by the Otzma Yehudit faction, against the backdrop of escalating political tensions with National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. This development follows the recent defeat of Ben Gvir's bill aimed at preventing Red Cross visits to terrorists, which Shas and other ultra-Orthodox factions opposed as part of their refusal to back coalition legislation until the "Basic Law: Torah Study" advances.

Shas criticized Ben Gvir for insisting on bringing his bill to a vote prematurely on Monday, which they claim led to its failure. The party stated that had Ben Gvir delayed the vote until Wednesday, Shas would have supported the bill and helped pass it. They accused Ben Gvir of deliberately sabotaging the legislation to gain political leverage by attacking right-wing coalition partners.

Meanwhile, the "Muezzin Law" is set for discussion today and faces strong opposition from Arab parties. If passed, the law will impose strict limits on the volume and timing of mosque loudspeaker announcements and require special permits for their use. Enforcement powers will be granted to the police, including the authority to demand immediate cessation of excessive noise and to confiscate mosque loudspeaker systems in cases of repeated violations.

Otzma Yehudit welcomed the broad coalition support expected for the bill, including from Shas, other ultra-Orthodox parties, and Yisrael Beiteinu. They emphasized that the law provides essential enforcement tools to address long-standing complaints from Israeli citizens about noise disturbances caused by mosque loudspeakers.

The political friction between Shas and Ben Gvir highlights ongoing coalition challenges, especially regarding legislation related to religious and security issues. The "Basic Law: Torah Study" is also scheduled for debate, adding to the complex negotiations within the government.