Smotrich Faces Backlash Over Support for Torah Study Basic Law Amid Reservists’ Burden
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has been praised for his efforts in developing infrastructure and settlement growth in Judea and Samaria. However, his support for the proposed Basic Law on Torah Study has sparked significant controversy, particularly among Israeli reservists. Critics argue that advancing this law sends a damaging message by equating full-time Torah study with the military service of IDF soldiers, many of whom bear heavy burdens through extended reserve duty that impacts their civilian lives and families.
The article highlights the tension between the flourishing settlement activity and the heavy toll on reservists, who sacrifice personal and economic stability to defend the country. It condemns the political maneuvering behind the law, accusing the ultra-Orthodox sector of exploiting the situation to gain legal and moral parity with combat soldiers. The author expresses deep disappointment with Smotrich and his party, Religious Zionism, for supporting the law for coalition survival, calling it a profound betrayal of the reservists’ sacrifices.
Further criticism is directed at the ultra-Orthodox community for harsh rhetoric against soldiers, including statements wishing harm upon them, which the article attributes to a problematic cultural and educational environment. It calls for a moral reckoning and vocal protest from within the Religious Zionist community, which traditionally values shared national responsibility and military service.
The piece invokes biblical examples to emphasize the importance of collective defense and condemns those who avoid bearing the burden of war. It stresses that the Religious Zionist identity is rooted in a deep connection to Torah combined with full partnership in the nation’s fate and security, a partnership that must not be compromised.
The article concludes by urging an end to political compromises that come at the expense of the country’s defenders, even if it means dissolving the coalition and calling early elections, prioritizing the protection of Israel and its soldiers over political expediency.
