Coalition Opposes Gafni's Demand to Exclude Soldiers from Basic Law on Torah Study

Moshe Gafni, chairman of the Degel HaTorah party, has demanded that no changes be made to the Basic Law on Torah Study, which currently recognizes Torah study as a fundamental value in Israel. However, coalition chairman Ofir Katz rejected this demand on Wednesday, stating that if the law does not include a clause recognizing the rights of combat soldiers, it will not pass. In recent days, combat veterans have appeared before the Knesset committee chaired by Katz, urging lawmakers not to neglect soldiers in the legislation.

Katz announced plans to submit amendments to the law to include combat soldiers, and members of the Likud party are also considering similar reservations. The Knesset's legal advisor, Attorney Shagit Afik, clarified that the current wording of the law might grant benefits to Torah students similar to those given to IDF combat soldiers, such as scholarships for higher education. This has raised concerns about fairness and budgetary impacts.

Combat veterans voiced strong criticism during the committee discussions. Yossi Sahardi, a combat veteran, expressed anger over the lack of respect and support for soldiers, emphasizing the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country. Another veteran, Omer Amsalem, highlighted the mental health crisis among combat soldiers, noting that 107 combat veterans have committed suicide, and condemned the government's neglect.

Itzik Saidian, chairman of the "At Eye Level" association and a PTSD sufferer, stressed that the highest value should be given to those who went to battle and risked their lives, arguing that these soldiers feel forgotten by the state. Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry warned that prioritizing Torah study over equality could severely disrupt budget priorities and cause significant economic and legal risks.

The Basic Law on Torah Study is part of a political deal between Prime Minister Netanyahu and ultra-Orthodox parties to maintain the coalition and prevent early elections. The law aims to establish Torah study as a fundamental value in Israel, balancing it against the principle of equality.