In a significant coalition maneuver, the government is preparing to transfer responsibility for the proposed Basic Law: Torah Study from the Knesset Constitution Committee to the House Committee, despite opposition from the Knesset’s legal adviser. The move reportedly comes at the request of Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich and reflects the Religious Zionism Party’s desire to distance itself from the controversial legislation.

According to reports, the coalition intends to remove the bill from the Constitution Committee, which is controlled by Religious Zionism lawmakers, and place it under the jurisdiction of the House Committee, where the Likud holds greater influence. The change is expected to make it easier for coalition leaders to manage the legislation while reducing the direct involvement of Smotrich’s party.

The decision reportedly stems from growing discomfort within the Religious Zionist camp over the proposed law. While the legislation is strongly backed by the chareidi parties, it has faced resistance among many in the religious-national community, leading party leaders to seek distance from the politically sensitive issue.

The proposal cleared its preliminary reading in the Knesset more than a week ago, passing by a vote of 56 to 43. Even at that stage, however, signs of coalition division were evident. Four coalition lawmakers—Yuli Edelstein, Dan Illouz, Sharren Haskel, and Moshe Solomon—broke ranks and voted against the measure.

According to the bill’s explanatory notes, the legislation is intended to enshrine Torah study as a foundational value of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. The proposal would also formally recognize individuals who dedicate themselves to long-term Torah learning as performing a meaningful service to the State of Israel and the Jewish people.

The expected transfer of the bill to a different committee marks the latest development in the ongoing political battle surrounding the status of Torah learning, a debate that continues to expose deep divisions both within the coalition and across the broader Israeli public.

{Matzav.com}