Naor Narkis Confirms Plan to Close Mikvehs in Next Israeli Government

Naor Narkis, a candidate from the Democrats party, responded to a video released by the Religious Zionism party that featured an audio clip of him supporting the closure of mikvehs (ritual baths). Narkis confirmed the authenticity of the recording and stated his eagerness to become the Minister of Secularism, aiming to dismantle the ultra-Orthodox religious establishment. He emphasized his commitment to separating religion from state funding, saying, "A democratic state separates religion from money," and urged supporters to join the Democrats to realize this agenda.

The video is part of a series published by Religious Zionism ahead of the upcoming government formation, highlighting concerns about potential coalition members. Other clips included statements from Yair Golan about closing the Ali pre-military academy, which Golan also confirmed, and from Naftali Bennett supporting Palestinian autonomy in Areas A and B. Another video showed Yair Lapid, portrayed as Foreign Minister in the proposed government, expressing intentions to advance peace with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.

Religious Zionism's campaign aims to warn voters about the policies expected from the next government, particularly from the Democrats and other secular or left-leaning figures. Narkis's explicit confirmation of closing mikvehs and dismantling the ultra-Orthodox establishment has intensified the political debate ahead of the elections.