Israeli Coalition Seeks Constitutional Status for Torah Study and Military Service

The Israeli coalition is advancing an amendment to the Basic Law: Torah Study, which would grant constitutional status not only to Torah scholars but also to active and reserve IDF soldiers. This move aims to reduce public criticism of the government regarding the equal status of Torah learners and military servicemen. The amendment will establish a shared constitutional status for both groups, presenting a unified recognition of their roles.

Political sources view the initiative as a coalition tactic to demonstrate appreciation for soldiers while attempting to neutralize opposition to the law. The coalition plans to argue that the government supports military personnel to counter claims of favoritism toward the ultra-Orthodox sector. Despite the amendment, the core of the Basic Law remains unchanged, continuing to guarantee exemptions from military service for Torah students and extensive funding for ultra-Orthodox autonomy.

Critics argue that the added clause does not alter the law’s practical effects, which primarily benefit the ultra-Orthodox by securing their constitutional and budgetary status alongside full military exemptions. During a Knesset debate, combat veterans expressed outrage, with Itzik Saidian emphasizing the sacrifices of soldiers who face trauma and loss, asserting that the highest value should be given to those who risk their lives in battle.

The Finance Ministry strongly opposes the Basic Law amendment, warning of severe economic and legal consequences for Israel’s economy. Officials caution that prioritizing Torah study rights over equality principles will disrupt budget priorities, divert resources, and potentially increase direct taxes by 16%. They also stress that the law undermines government goals to integrate the ultra-Orthodox into military service and the workforce.

Supporters from ultra-Orthodox parties, including United Torah Judaism and Shas, praise the law as a historic correction recognizing Torah study as a fundamental value of the Jewish people. They argue it restores respect for Torah and its central role in Israeli society. Conversely, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and opposition figures condemn the law as harmful, pledging to repeal it and prioritize soldiers’ needs in future governments. Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot criticized the law as undermining national resilience by enabling military service evasion under the guise of Torah study.

Last week, the Knesset approved the Basic Law amendment in its first reading by 63 votes to 53. The legislation seeks to enshrine Torah study as a foundational value and equalize the status of Torah learners with IDF servicemen, sparking intense political and public debate over military exemptions and societal priorities in Israel.