Israeli Finance Committee Approves Billions in Budget Transfers to Ultra-Orthodox and Religious Education

Ahead of the Knesset's expected dissolution next week, the Finance Committee approved significant budget reallocations on Wednesday benefiting ultra-Orthodox institutions and religious education. The approved funds include 30.8 million shekels for Torah institutions, 53.2 million shekels for the Religious Education Administration, 3.6 million shekels for exempt institutions, and 455.6 million shekels for the Settlement Education Administration. Additional allocations were made for independent education (672,000 shekels), a religious education framework (8,000 shekels), recognized but unofficial institutions (3.4 million shekels), and Jewish culture (185,000 shekels).

Knesset member Naor Shiri from the "Together" party sharply criticized the decision, describing it as an unprecedented attack near the end of the legislative term. Shiri accused the coalition of transferring billions to the ultra-Orthodox sector at the expense of combat soldiers, calling the move blatant discrimination. He further claimed coalition members are only interested in securing jobs for their affiliates.

The budget shifts come amid political tensions as the Knesset prepares for dissolution, highlighting ongoing disputes over resource allocation between religious sectors and other public priorities. The controversy underscores the challenges in balancing diverse community needs within Israel's budgetary process.