Knesset Approves Preliminary Bill to Tighten Enforcement on Mosque Loudspeaker Noise

The Knesset approved in a preliminary reading a bill aimed at stricter enforcement against noise from mosque loudspeakers. The bill was promoted by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and National Security Committee Chairman MK Tzvika Fogel. The vote took place on Wednesday evening, with 50 MKs supporting and 36 opposing the proposal. Despite previous threats to withhold support over other political issues, the Shas party voted in favor, joined by the opposition party Yisrael Beiteinu.

The bill prohibits the installation or operation of loudspeaker systems in mosques without a permit. Permit approval will consider noise levels, noise reduction measures, mosque location, proximity to residential areas, and the noise impact on residents. Police officers will have the authority to demand immediate cessation of violations and confiscate loudspeaker systems if violations persist. The law also sets fines of 50,000 shekels for unauthorized installation or operation and 10,000 shekels for violating permit conditions.

Unlike previous bills that focused mainly on limiting operating hours and allowed broad exceptions with limited enforcement, this legislation establishes a formal licensing and oversight mechanism, assigns clear personal responsibility to operators, and significantly strengthens enforcement and penalties. It also includes a dedicated mechanism to allocate collected fines to public projects.

The bill’s explanatory notes emphasize that noise is a health hazard and that existing enforcement efforts have been insufficient. Minister Ben-Gvir stated that the loudspeaker noise is an unreasonable disturbance harming residents’ quality of life and health, and that the police have begun addressing the issue seriously under his tenure. MK Fogel added that excessive loudspeaker noise is not a religious matter but a public health and quality of life issue, and the bill aims to enable firm and clear action against ongoing violations.