IDF Veterans Interrupt Knesset Debate Demanding Priority Over Torah Study Law

On July 9, 2026, the Knesset Committee discussed the Basic Law on Torah Study ahead of its second and third readings. During the session, combat veterans interrupted the debate, demanding that their needs be prioritized over the legislation advancing benefits for Torah students. Einav Danino, mother of Uri Danino who was kidnapped and murdered by Hamas, supported the veterans, urging lawmakers to prioritize them. She highlighted the sacrifices of the veterans, noting that many carry deep physical and emotional wounds.

MK Itzik Goldknopf expressed empathy and promised to champion legislation supporting veterans. Opposition members initially submitted thousands of amendments but withdrew them, citing ongoing negotiations between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ultra-Orthodox parties. Meanwhile, Emanuel Veizer, a judge on the Likud party court and longtime party member, publicly criticized the party for yielding to ultra-Orthodox demands. Veizer warned he would leave Likud if the Torah study law or legislation preventing the arrest of draft-dodging ultra-Orthodox men passed, accusing the party of betraying IDF soldiers.

Likud MK Ariel Kallner rejected prioritizing Torah students over soldiers, emphasizing that those serving the country deserve greater recognition and benefits. He stated, "Whoever serves should receive more than anyone else, from any sector or position." The "Maaminim" movement, including bereaved families and former military officers, called on Religious Zionist Party leader Bezalel Smotrich to halt the law's advancement, arguing it undermines the serving public and fails to expand frameworks combining Torah study with military service.

The vote on the law is scheduled for Sunday, with significant pressure on lawmakers to support the serving population and Religious Zionist values rather than maintain the status quo favoring exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Torah students.