Shas Threatens Netanyahu Over Torah Study Law, Jeopardizing Coalition Unity
Amid the ongoing crisis surrounding the Basic Law on Torah Study, the Shas party issued a stern warning to the Likud party on Wednesday evening, threatening to withdraw from the religious right-wing bloc if the law is weakened. The party's official newspaper, HaDerech, featured a front-page editorial titled "Days of Decision for the Torah World Laws," sharply criticizing Likud's attempts to backtrack on agreements related to the law. Shas leaders warned that breaking these agreements would betray their most loyal partners and destabilize the religious bloc's foundation.
Shas leader Aryeh Deri emphasized the importance of the deal, instructing party officials to convey its significance to government authorities. The editorial stressed that without a shared foundation, the religious bloc cannot remain united, noting that some within the bloc are already considering diluting the law under media pressure. The coming week was described as critical in determining whether the religious bloc will endure or dissolve as a temporary political alliance.
Previously, Shas served as a bridge between ultra-Orthodox factions threatening to split from the bloc and the Likud and Religious Zionist parties. The party has reiterated that Deri founded and maintains the bloc, and its members have repeatedly stated they do not engage with the opposition despite opposing the current government.
Earlier on Wednesday, coalition chairman Ofir Katz rejected a demand from Degel HaTorah leader Moshe Gafni to include a clause recognizing IDF combatants' rights in the law, warning the bill would not pass without it. Gafni sent a clear message to Netanyahu opposing any changes to the law's wording. This followed comments from the Knesset legal advisor that the current draft might grant benefits to Torah scholars similar to those given to soldiers.
In recent days, combat veterans testified before Katz's committee, urging inclusion in the law. Katz announced plans to propose amendments to encompass soldiers, with Likud also considering reservations. A senior ultra-Orthodox official criticized Likud for pushing significant changes behind closed doors, accusing the party of opposing Torah values despite its right-wing image.
The Basic Law on Torah Study is a key part of the political deal between Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox parties to preserve the bloc and avoid early elections. The law aims to establish Torah study as a fundamental value in Israel, counterbalancing the principle of equality.
