Israeli Knesset Advances Basic Law on Torah Study in Key Coalition Deal

The Israeli Knesset is set to vote on Wednesday on the Basic Law: Torah Study, a central piece in the coalition agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties. This law aims to enshrine Torah study as a fundamental value of the State of Israel. Supporters argue it formally recognizes the status of Torah study, while opponents warn it could complicate future enforcement against those who refuse military service. As a Basic Law, it requires a majority of 61 Knesset members for approval.

The legislation is part of a broader package negotiated between the ultra-Orthodox factions and the coalition, which includes halting arrests and canceling a previous kosher certification reform. In return, the coalition seeks to advance other priorities such as splitting the Attorney General's role, media legislation, and a political investigation committee into the events of October 7, proposed by MK Ariel Kallner.

Some coalition members are expected to oppose the bill, as they did in the preliminary reading. Opposition sources claim an understanding was reached whereby Arab MKs would boycott the vote on the Torah study law, while ultra-Orthodox MKs would boycott a bill imposing fines on the Muslim call to prayer. The ultra-Orthodox parties have maintained a voting boycott on coalition bills important to them until their key laws progress, as seen when the "Red Cross" bill failed due to their absence.

If the Basic Law: Torah Study passes, the ultra-Orthodox boycott is likely to be temporarily suspended, allowing them to support coalition legislation important to their agenda. Thus, Wednesday's vote is viewed as a critical test for ongoing cooperation between the coalition and ultra-Orthodox factions.