Democratic Candidate Naor Narkis Confirms Plan to Close Mikvehs in Next Israeli Government

Naor Narkis, the Democratic Party candidate, confirmed his intention to close mikvehs (ritual baths) in Israel if appointed Minister of Religious Services in the next government. This statement came in response to a campaign video by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, which portrayed Narkis as planning to shut down mikvehs. Instead of denying the claim, Narkis posted on social media platform X that he eagerly awaits becoming the "Minister of Secularism" to dismantle the ultra-Orthodox religious establishment, emphasizing the need for separation of religion and state finances. He urged supporters to join the Democratic Party to realize this agenda.

Finance Minister Smotrich reacted by accusing Narkis of confirming the left-wing coalition's plan to close all mikvehs for religious Jews once in power. Smotrich warned the public to heed Narkis's words as a clear indication of their intentions. The Shas party also condemned Narkis, framing his stance as an attack on Jewish tradition. Shas highlighted its recent efforts to build and upgrade dozens of mikvehs nationwide, serving millions of secular, religious, and ultra-Orthodox citizens, and pledged to continue supporting religious services and traditions. They contrasted their commitment to mikveh construction with Narkis's declared plan to close them.