Ministerial Committee Approves Basic Law on Torah Study

Israel's ministerial committee approved the Basic Law: Torah Study bill. The legislation elevates Torah study as a constitutional priority. It responds to long-standing demands from haredi parties within the governing coalition.

Critics argue the bill entrenches exemptions from military service for full-time Torah students. They link the measure to ongoing disputes over draft evasion and unequal burden-sharing. Coalition partners have expressed concern that the bill could strain relations with non-haredi factions and the broader public.

The approval moves the bill to the next stage of the legislative process, where further debate and possible amendments are expected.