Israeli Parliament Approves Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Fierce Political Backlash

The Israeli Knesset approved a Basic Law on Torah Study in a first reading on July 1, 2026, with 63 votes in favor and 53 against, sparking intense political controversy. The law aims to elevate the status of Torah study, particularly protecting those who study Torah from military conscription, a move strongly supported by ultra-Orthodox parties but sharply criticized by opposition members.

Opposition leaders condemned the law as a direct threat to national security and social cohesion. Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot called it an attempt to legalize draft evasion, harming the "national backbone." MK Gilad Kariv accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of celebrating the aftermath of the October 7 attacks instead of addressing the consequences. Avigdor Lieberman labeled the law a "desecration of God" and a "mark of Cain" on the coalition responsible for the October 7 massacre, accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over the military and society.

Other critics, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Democratic Party leader Yair Golan, pledged to repeal the law in the next government and emphasized the need for ultra-Orthodox enlistment. Reservist Yaya Pink called the law an insult to soldiers who bear the military burden.

In contrast, ultra-Orthodox coalition members praised the legislation as a historic correction recognizing the supreme value of Torah study. MK Moshe Gafni, the bill’s sponsor, argued the law restores respect for Torah study, which he said had been devalued, and criticized current arrests of Torah students. Shas leader Aryeh Deri hailed the law as the beginning of a historic recognition of Torah’s spiritual role in Israel. Other ultra-Orthodox MKs stressed that Torah study is the foundation of the nation and should be prioritized over military service.

The law’s passage deepens divisions over military conscription exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men and reflects ongoing tensions within Israeli society about balancing religious tradition and national security. The opposition vows to challenge the law’s legitimacy and work toward its repeal in future administrations.