Israeli Knesset Set to Approve Basic Law Recognizing Torah Study as Fundamental Value

The Israeli Knesset is scheduled to hold a final vote today on the Basic Law: Torah Study, which aims to formally recognize Torah study as a fundamental value in the state. The legislation, initiated by Moshe Gafni of the Degel HaTorah party, will enter Israel's legal code upon approval in the second and third readings.

The bill's passage follows a compromise between the coalition and ultra-Orthodox parties, notably Shas and Degel HaTorah, which led to the removal of a controversial clause. This clause had sought to grant benefits to yeshiva students similar to those given to combat soldiers. The remaining provision affirms Torah study as a core value in the Jewish heritage of Israel.

Knesset Committee Chairman Ofir Katz, who proposed deleting the contentious clause, explained the decision came after consultations with ultra-Orthodox partners and coalition members. He emphasized that no soldier would be harmed by the law's approval and that the remaining clause is uncontested, recognizing Torah study as a fundamental value.

Opposition members criticized the bill, with MK Naor Shiri of Yesh Atid arguing that even without the removed clause, the law grants Torah study a unique constitutional status not extended to other values like military service or care for combat trauma victims. Legal advisors expressed that the law, post-amendment, is largely declarative and does not affect resource allocation or the status of soldiers.

Within the coalition, disagreement persists. MK Yinon Azoulai of Shas accepted the clause removal but warned it still provides courts with additional tools in equality-related rulings. Meanwhile, MK Yitzhak Goldknopf of United Torah Judaism opposed the removal, stating he was not informed and wished to retain the original wording.