Haredi Leader Gafni Rejects Changes to Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Coalition Tensions

A political dispute has emerged within Israel's coalition over the proposed Basic Law on Torah Study, with Haredi parties firmly opposing any amendments. The controversy intensified after the Knesset's legal advisor, Attorney Shagit Afik, criticized the current wording of the law, warning it could lead to broad interpretations granting significant benefits in areas such as military exemptions and state funding. Afik urged for clearer language to emphasize the law's declarative nature, cautioning that its ambiguity might cause practical implications despite not explicitly providing exemptions.

Moshe Gafni, chairman of the Degel HaTorah party, conveyed a strong message to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United Torah Judaism faction would not accept any changes to the law's text. Meanwhile, the Knesset Committee continued preparing the bill for its second and third readings, with committee chairman Ofir Katz announcing that lawmakers could submit amendments until 8 a.m. the following day, with voting scheduled for 10 a.m.

Deputy legal advisor Avital Sompolinsky also expressed skepticism about the law being merely declarative, noting that Torah study is already recognized by Israeli courts as a core value of the state. In contrast, bill sponsor MK Yinon Azulai rejected the criticism, stating the law is intended only as an interpretive tool for courts and does not create budgetary rights or financial implications. Azulai accused critics of misleading the public.

The Basic Law, which passed its first reading, aims to enshrine Torah study as a fundamental value in Israel. While coalition members emphasize its symbolic nature, opposition parties and legal experts warn it could affect military conscription policies, funding allocations, and judicial decisions. During the debate, a "Shutafut LeSherut" activist was removed after labeling Haredi laws as "draft evasion laws," highlighting the heated atmosphere surrounding the legislation.