High Court freezes Finance Committee budget transfers over procedural flaws

The High Court of Justice has issued a temporary freeze on almost all budget transfers approved by the Knesset Finance Committee, citing procedural irregularities in the committee's election-recess meeting. Justice Alex Stein's order halts the implementation of transfers totaling approximately NIS 1 billion, with the exception of funds earmarked for civilian emergency needs. The court has not yet ruled on the legality of the transfers themselves.

The committee had approved the substantial allocations, including roughly NIS 270 million for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) education, following a contentious debate regarding the proper convening of the meeting during the parliamentary recess. The decision to freeze the funds came in response to a petition filed by the Hiddush religious-freedom organization and Democrats MK Naama Lazimi.

A three-justice panel is scheduled to hear the petition as soon as possible. The respondents have been directed to submit preliminary responses before the hearing takes place. This situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding parliamentary procedures and budget allocations, particularly during periods of recess.