Israeli Knesset Passes Basic Law on Torah Study in First Reading Amid Controversy
The Israeli Knesset approved in its first reading the Basic Law proposal on Torah Study, initiated by Degel HaTorah chairman MK Moshe Gafni, with 63 members voting in favor. The law aims to enshrine the status of Torah study within Israel's Basic Laws, reflecting its significance to the Jewish character of the state and the standing of the Torah world.
Supporters from coalition parties hailed the legislation as a historic step. MK Moshe Gafni stated, "The Jewish state restores the Torah's honor to its rightful place." Shas leader Aryeh Deri also praised the vote, calling it "the beginning of a historic correction and recognition of the supreme value of the Torah and its scholars in Israel."
Opposition figures criticized the move, with former Prime Minister and party leader Naftali Bennett declaring that if he returns to power, he will immediately repeal the law. "When we come to power, we will cancel the law right away," Bennett said.
The first reading approval marks only the initial stage in the legislative process. The bill is expected to return for further committee discussions and subsequent second and third readings in the Knesset plenary before becoming law.
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