Knesset passes contentious Basic Law declaring Torah study a constitutional value

Israel's Knesset has passed a contentious Basic Law establishing Torah study as a constitutional value, a significant legislative victory for the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community. The vote advanced a flagship measure championed by Haredi parties as part of a complex end-of-term deal.

This deal involved trading ultra-Orthodox priorities, including this law, for support on other key issues. These included a proposed investigation into the handling of the October 7 attacks and a bill concerning the Attorney General's office. The passage of the Basic Law signifies a consolidation of Haredi political influence within the current governing coalition.

The contentious nature of the law stems from its potential implications for the separation of religion and state in Israel and its impact on national priorities, particularly during a period of heightened security concerns. Critics argue that enshrining religious study as a constitutional value could further entrench religious influence in public life and divert resources from other critical areas, including national service requirements.