Yesh Atid MK Miki Levi Drops Opposition to Basic Law on Torah Study After Controversial Clause Removed

Miki Levi, a member of the Knesset from the Yesh Atid party, announced on Thursday that he will no longer oppose the Basic Law on Torah Study following the removal of its controversial Clause 2. Originally, this clause recognized those engaged in long-term Torah study as performing significant service to the State of Israel and the Jewish people, which sparked public and political criticism.

Earlier in the day, Levi addressed coalition chairman Ofir Katz during a Knesset discussion, stating that if Clause 2 were deleted, he would vote in favor of the law. After the Likud party and ultra-Orthodox factions reached an agreement to remove the clause, Levi reiterated his position, clarifying that his principled opposition to the bill had been lifted.

The removal of Clause 2 effectively rendered the Basic Law on Torah Study declarative rather than conferring specific rights or obligations. This development marked a significant shift in the legislative process, with opposition voices from Yesh Atid unexpectedly aligning with the coalition on this issue. The law is now expected to pass without Levi’s opposition, reflecting the political compromises made between the Likud and ultra-Orthodox parties.