Israeli Opposition Vows to Revoke New Basic Law on Torah Study If Elected

The recent preliminary approval of the Basic Law on Torah Study in Israel has sparked fierce criticism across the political spectrum. Opponents argue the law undermines equal burden-sharing, strengthens military service exemptions, and deepens societal divisions. Key figures including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, and others have condemned the legislation.

Avigdor Lieberman accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of willing to dismantle the IDF and Israeli society to maintain his coalition, calling the law a "mark of shame" linked to the October 7 attacks. Naftali Bennett pledged that if he forms the next government, he will immediately repeal the law, emphasizing that evasion of military service contradicts national unity and weakens security.

Likud MK Dan Illouz also criticized the law, warning it risks alienating the serving public and could lead to electoral losses for his party. Gadi Eizenkot described the law as a direct blow to Israel's national backbone, stressing that Torah study should not be used as a political cover to neglect defense duties. Democratic Party leader Erez Golan promised his future government would cancel the law, enforce Haredi conscription, and restore true equality in national service.

The Basic Law on Torah Study, approved in its first reading, has thus become a flashpoint in Israeli politics, with opposition leaders united in their commitment to overturn it upon forming a new government. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over military exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox and the broader issue of societal cohesion and national resilience.

Summary: Israel's Basic Law on Torah Study has drawn sharp political backlash for increasing military exemptions and societal division, with opposition leaders pledging to repeal it if they form the next government.