Israeli Parliament Passes Basic Law on Torah Study Amid Colorful Political Moments
The Israeli Knesset recently passed a Basic Law establishing Torah study as a fundamental value of the state, with unanimous support including from Avigdor Lieberman. The legislative session featured lively interactions among lawmakers, highlighting cultural and religious diversity within the parliament.
Tali Gottlieb notably expressed concern over Ashkenazi prayer traditions, questioning the representation of Sephardic prayers. Meanwhile, Ahmad Tibi and Merav Ben Ari clarified their support for Torah study, emphasizing they are not opposed to it. Shas party members voted in favor of a law concerning the muezzin, while Gottlieb focused on Ashkenazi prayer issues. Miri Regev and Naor Shiri engaged in lighthearted exchanges about coffee preferences.
A memorable moment occurred when Aryeh Deri and Gilad Goldknopf were spotted together at a café, described as a "miracle." Goldknopf held onto the microphone until his coffee was ready, refusing to release it, and when coffee was unavailable, Yaakov Peretz offered pizza as a substitute, which he humorously rejected. The session also saw the passage of a law against arbitrary arrests, with yeshiva students arriving at the Knesset in support.
Gottlieb read Psalms in the Knesset, suggesting a blend of Torah, Psalms, and military service. Discussions included dietary laws during the Three Weeks period, with debates over who is permitted to eat meat. Julia Malinovsky commented on the high cost of meat in supermarkets, prompting Gottlieb to promise close supervision.
The report was presented by Yossi Abdu, with writing by Yosef Haim Maimon and editing by Yedidya Cohen. The coverage included footage from the Knesset Channel and social media posts from Miri Regev, Naor Shiri, and Israel Shapira.
