Coalition Threatens United Torah Judaism Over Regional Councils Law, May Block Basic Law on Torah Study

Tensions between the United Torah Judaism party and the Israeli coalition have escalated sharply. Coalition chairman MK Ofir Katz warned that if United Torah Judaism votes against the amendment to the Regional Councils Law proposed by Minister Orit Strook, he will halt the advancement of the Basic Law on Torah Study in the Knesset committee. According to reports, Katz recently met with Degel HaTorah chairman MK Moshe Gafni to seek an agreement that would allow coalition legislation to proceed during the day.

Meanwhile, United Torah Judaism threatens to oppose all coalition bills, including the establishment of a state inquiry committee and other bills from the Religious Zionist Party. The dispute extends beyond Strook's law, as United Torah Judaism also intends to delay the transfer of powers from the Interior Ministry to the Prime Minister due to the absence of a permanent Interior Minister. In a faction meeting, Gafni stated, "Instead of transferring powers from the Interior Ministry every week, a permanent minister should be appointed."