Israeli Parliament Passes Basic Law on Torah Study as Part of Coalition Deal with Ultra-Orthodox Parties

The Israeli Knesset approved the Basic Law on Torah Study on Wednesday evening, marking a key development in the coalition agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties. This law, considered crucial by the Haredi factions, formally establishes Torah study as a fundamental value in the State of Israel. The legislation is part of a broader deal in which the ultra-Orthodox parties agreed to support coalition priorities in exchange for advancing laws important to their communities.

The Haredi bloc's demands include the Basic Law on Torah Study, cessation of arrests related to draft evasion, and the repeal of the former Minister Matan Kahana's kosher certification reform. In return, the coalition seeks to promote the division of the Attorney General's role, a new communications law, and a parliamentary inquiry committee proposed by MK Ariel Kallner.

Supporters of the Basic Law argue it constitutionally recognizes the status of Torah study, while opponents warn it could complicate future enforcement against those who refuse military service. Some coalition members opposed the bill, as they did during the preliminary reading. The law's passage is expected to temporarily suspend the ultra-Orthodox boycott and restore their cooperation with the coalition on other legislative matters, making this vote a significant test for ongoing collaboration between the government and Haredi parties.