Haredi parties deny report of deal with Netanyahu to pass array of pre-election laws
Haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism have denied reports of a deal with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to support coalition legislation in exchange for advancing their own legislative agenda. The reported discussions followed a meeting between Netanyahu, Shas leader Aryeh Deri, and Degel HaTorah leader Moshe Gafni. This comes amid a boycott by Haredi lawmakers against coalition legislation, initially triggered by the coalition's refusal to advance the 'Daycare Law,' which would restore subsidies for children of draft evaders. The boycott has expanded to include broader demands related to conscription exemptions for yeshiva students. According to Ynet, the sides reportedly agreed to move the upcoming Knesset election to October 20 and for Haredi groups to support certain coalition bills, including splitting the attorney general's role and establishing an inquiry into Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. In return, the coalition would support Haredi-backed legislation, such as a Basic Law recognizing Torah study as a foundational state value and a bill to halt arrests of yeshiva students who avoid military service. However, the 'Daycare Law' would not be included in
The Knesset has taken a significant step in shaping the legal framework of Israel by advancing a controversial Basic Law that equates Torah study with military service. On Wednesday, the legislative body passed the bill in a preliminary reading with a vote of 56-43, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the status of ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) men in the Israeli military. Despite strong opposition, including a notable rebellion from several coalition lawmakers, the bill moved forward, setting the stage for further deliberation and potential enactment.
At the heart of the legislation is the attempt by Haredi political factions—specifically the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and the Shas party—to secure legal protections for yeshiva students who choose not to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The bill proposes that individuals dedicating themselves to long-term Torah study should be recognized as performing "meaningful service" to the state, thereby granting them rights comparable to those of IDF soldiers. This approach aims to address the longstanding issue of mass draft exemptions for Haredi men, which have been challenged in court and increasingly scrutinized in light of Israel’s military challenges.
The bill was sponsored by MK Moshe Gafni of the UTJ and received backing from the Shas party. Its passage comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the issue of military service among Haredi communities. In 2024, a High Court ruling declared existing draft exemptions unconstitutional, prompting the government to curtail certain state benefits for non-compliant individuals. The new legislation is seen as a direct response to this judicial intervention, aiming to legally entrench the status of Torah study as equivalent to military service and thus shield draft evaders from losing benefits.
The controversy surrounding the bill was underscored by a small but impactful rebellion within the governing coalition. Four lawmakers—Likud MKs Dan Illouz and Yuli Edelstein, Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, and Religious Zionism MK Moshe Solomon—voted against the legislation, defying their party's stance. Their dissent highlighted deep divisions within the coalition, particularly concerning the balance between religious freedom and national security. Illouz and Edelstein, both prominent figures in the Likud party, had previously opposed efforts to maintain broad exemptions for Haredi students, with Edelstein even being removed from leadership positions for his resistance to advancing such policies.
The backlash against the bill was immediate and intense. Shas MK Yossi Taieb, known for his fiery rhetoric, was physically restrained by Knesset guards after attempting to confront one of the opposing lawmakers post-vote. This incident reflected the emotional intensity of the debate, which has been fueled by broader societal concerns about the role of religion in public life and the pressures of national defense.
The legislation also drew criticism from various quarters, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Yashar! party leader Gadi Eisenkot, who accused the government of undermining the honor of IDF soldiers and prioritizing religious interests over national security. Bennett described the bill as an "exemption law on steroids," emphasizing the perceived threat to the integrity of the military and the state’s ability to defend itself.
As the bill moves forward, it faces the challenge of passing through additional legislative stages, including review by the Knesset House Committee. The coalition's goal is to enact the law before the upcoming national elections, which are set for the fall. However, the path to finalization remains uncertain, given the polarized views and the potential for further political maneuvering. The outcome of this legislative process will likely shape the future of Haredi participation in the military and the broader discourse on religious autonomy versus national duty in Israeli society.
25 reports
The Times of IsraelIndependentRightFactual 95Objective 852 days ago
The Knesset passed the first reading of a controversial Basic Law that declares Torah study a foundational value of the State of Israel, aiming to protect draft evading ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students from legal repercussions. Sponsored by ultra-Orthodox lawmakers Moshe Gafni and Yaakov Asher, and supported by the Shas party, the bill seeks to exempt religious students from military service obligations. This follows a stalled coalition-backed enlistment bill and reflects ongoing tensions between ultra-Orthodox parties and the governing coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The legislation faces significant criticism, including from within the coalition, for potentially undermining court decisions mandating the conscription of ultra-Orthodox youth. The bill will undergo further review before final approval.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the legislation as a response to perceived threats to religious freedoms and highlights opposition from secular and centrist factions within the coalition. It emphasizes the ultra-Orthodox parties' stance while downplaying concerns about potential legal loopholes and the erosionof
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Highly detailed and accurate account of the Basic Law passage, with specific details on sponsors, voting, and context. Slightly biased in framing the bill as 'contentious' and focusing on the Haredi angle.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 855 days ago
Defense Minister Israel Katz proposed a 90-day freeze on arresting haredi (ultra-Orthodox) draft evaders amid a political crisis involving the Knesset advancing legislation to enshrine Torah study in a Basic Law. This move follows pressure from haredi parties, including Shas and United Torah Judaism, which had threatened to boycott coalition votes unless their demands were met. Katz requested an urgent meeting with Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chair Boaz Bismuth to discuss the proposal, which was later outlined by Bismuth. The proposal would prevent arrests, investigations, or enforcement actions related to draft evasion during the 90-day period. The legislation to enshrine Torah study in a Basic Law is part of a larger effort by haredi groups to secure legal protections for their religious practices, particularly regarding military service exemptions.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the defense minister's proposal and the haredi parties' demands without overtly favoring one side. It includes quotes from multiple stakeholders and outlines the legal and political context neutrally, avoiding loaded language or one-sided emphasis.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Highly factual with detailed quotes and sources. Slightly less objective due to some contextual framing around political tensions.
The Times of IsraelIndependentCenterFactual 93Objective 8410 days ago
Haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism have denied reports of a deal with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to support coalition legislation in exchange for advancing their own legislative agenda. The reported discussions followed a meeting between Netanyahu, Shas leader Aryeh Deri, and Degel HaTorah leader Moshe Gafni. This comes amid a boycott by Haredi lawmakers against coalition legislation, initially triggered by the coalition's refusal to advance the 'Daycare Law,' which would restore subsidies for children of draft evaders. The boycott has expanded to include broader demands related to conscription exemptions for yeshiva students. According to Ynet, the sides reportedly agreed to move the upcoming Knesset election to October 20 and for Haredi groups to support certain coalition bills, including splitting the attorney general's role and establishing an inquiry into Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. In return, the coalition would support Haredi-backed legislation, such as a Basic Law recognizing Torah study as a foundational state value and a bill to halt arrests of yeshiva students who avoid military service. However, the 'Daycare Law' would not be included in
Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the situation without overtly favoring one over the other. It includes direct quotes from the Haredi parties denying a deal and provides context about their demands and the coalition's position. There is no evident loaded language or one-sided sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 93 · Objective 84): Detailed and accurate reporting on the bill's advancement. Includes quotes from officials and critics, maintaining balance.
The Times of IsraelIndependentRightFactual 92Objective 833 days ago
The Knesset House Committee advanced a proposed Basic Law declaring Torah study a foundational value of Israel, following a contentious debate. This legislation is part of an effort by Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties to secure legal protections for yeshiva students exempt from military service and to shield current draft evaders from prosecution. The bill aims to elevate the status of Torah study within Israeli law, with supporters claiming it preserves Jewish heritage and ensures recognition of religious education. Opponents, including Deputy Attorney General Avital Sompolinsky and opposition lawmakers, argue the law raises unresolved constitutional issues and represents a politically motivated attempt to bypass court decisions on mandatory military service. The legislation is set for its first plenum vote soon.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the legislation as a significant step toward granting special legal status to Torah study and shielding draft evaders, emphasizing support from Haredi parties and their arguments about preserving Jewish heritage. It presents criticism from opponents but does not balance the legal,
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 83): Accurate coverage of the proposed arrest freeze and related legislative efforts. Maintains neutrality while providing context.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentRightFactual 92Objective 7812 days ago
Likud Member of Knesset Dan Illouz criticized the ongoing political partnership between his party and the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) factions, warning that it poses a threat to Israel's national security and economic stability. He highlighted concerns over haredi-led legislation aimed at exempting yeshiva students from military service and altering daycare subsidy eligibility based on maternal income, both of which face opposition from parts of the coalition and the opposition. These bills have caused legislative delays as haredi parties threaten to block other legislation unless their demands are met. Illouz argued that the growing haredi population exacerbates manpower shortages in the Israeli Defense Forces and undermines the economy, urging the coalition to seek alternative alliances that align with a right-wing, free-market, and hawkish agenda.
Bias read (Right): The article presents Illouz's perspective, emphasizing the dangers of the haredi alliance from a right-wing, hawkish, and economically focused viewpoint. The framing highlights the risks to national security and economic stability posed by haredi policies, particularly regarding military consciption
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 78): Factual coverage of the bill's first reading and Netanyahu's involvement. Slight bias in presenting the bill as 'contentious' and highlighting criticism.
The Times of IsraelIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 805 days ago
The Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, led by Boaz Bismuth, plans to advance temporary legislation that would halt the arrests of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) draft evaders for 90 days. This move follows pressure from Defense Minister Israel Katz and Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs, who both called for a moratorium on such arrests. The decision comes amid tensions between the government and Haredi parties, which have boycotted coalition legislation due to disagreements over military service exemptions for yeshiva students. The proposed measure aims to prevent further protests and disruptions caused by Haredi demonstrations against the enforcement of conscription laws. Under the plan, arrests, investigations, and legal actions related to draft evasion would be suspended for 90 days, provided the yeshiva meets specific criteria, including minimum weekly study hours.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation objectively, quoting multiple officials and outlining the proposed legislation without overtly favoring either side. It includes perspectives from both the government and the Haredi community, providing balanced context about the political conflict and the proposed
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): Accurate reporting on the proposed arrest freeze and coalition dynamics. Slight focus on the Haredi perspective.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8011 days ago
Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties Shas and United Torah Judaism have extended their boycott of coalition voting for another week, delaying the progress of the controversial Basic Law: Torah Study bill. This bill aims to enshrine Torah study in Israel's Basic Law, potentially allowing yeshiva students to avoid military service while continuing to receive state benefits. The bill passed its first reading but requires further approval in a Knesset committee before proceeding through additional readings. Shas leader Arye Deri linked the boycott to recent police arrests of haredi draft evaders, demanding an end to these arrests and the passage of the Torah Study bill. Degel Hatorah leader Moshe Gafni expressed frustration with unfulfilled promises from previous legislation and insisted on ensuring this bill passes. The Knesset plenum voted to move the bill to the House Committee instead of the Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee, where it would have been handled by MK Simcha Rothman of the Religious Zionist Party. Rothman claimed the shift was due to scheduling issues, though some suggest it reflects an effort to distance the party from the contentious legislation. Knesset legal顾问Sag
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives of the haredi parties and the opposition, including quotes from Shas leader Arye Deri and Degel Hatorah leader Moshe Gafni, as well as comments from Knesset legal advisor Sagit Afik and MK Simcha Rothman. It does not exhibit clear bias toward either side, nor a
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): Accurate summary of the Haredi boycott and the bill's purpose. Some bias in describing the bill as 'controversial' and emphasizing the Haredi perspective.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 7519 days ago
Twenty ultra-Orthodox (haredi) air force technicians were recruited at Tel Nof Air Force Base after completing a two-month training program in Haifa. They will work on F-15 aircraft in the 106th Squadron. This marks the establishment of the first religious data center at the base. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are attempting to accommodate haredi men in maintaining their traditional lifestyle while fulfilling mandatory military service. The IDF is facing a worsening manpower shortage, which officials say could become critical without legislative action to extend mandatory service, separate
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the recruitment of haredi technicians and the IDF's efforts to address a manpower crisis. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The content remains neutral in tone and focuses on reported events and official
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): The article presents verifiable information about the recruitment of 20 haredi air force technicians at Tel Nof Air Force Base and contextualizes it within the broader issue of Israel's military manpower crisis. However, it includes quotes from officials that may reflect bias rather than strictly fa
The Times of IsraelIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 824 days ago
The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing discusses the Israeli Knesset's upcoming agenda, focusing on the controversial proposed Basic Law that would enshrine Torah study as a foundational value of the state, backed by ultra-Orthodox parties aiming to exempt yeshiva students from military service. Other contentious bills include changes to the attorney general's authority and a communications bill that could impact media independence. The briefing also examines potential political alliances ahead of Israel's October election, particularly between Benny Gantz's Blue and White party, Yoaz Hendel's Reservists party, and Dedy Simhi, noting unresolved tensions. It concludes with an overview of key political figures like Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, and Benjamin Netanyahu amid ongoing coalition negotiations.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of multiple political developments in Israel, including legislative proposals and potential alliances, without overtly favoring any side. It presents facts and quotes from political analysts without evident ideological framing.
Why these scores (Factual 88 · Objective 82): Brief overview of the Knesset agenda. Less detailed but accurate. Generally neutral in tone.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentRightFactual 85Objective 702 days ago
The son of Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi, who verbally attacked IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, defended his father's actions during an interview on 103FM. Yehuda Yazdi claimed his father receives no state funding, refuting reports that he is budgeted hundreds of thousands of shekels annually. The rabbi had cursed Zamir and called for his name to be erased, describing soldiers being treated harshly in the military. Yehuda emphasized his father's dedication to Torah study and criticized the treatment of religious figures, referencing a journalist's theory about different Israeli identities. He also dismissed claims about his father's financial support, stating that he no longer receives the monthly stipend for being registered as a kollel avrech.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the rabbi's verbal attack on the IDF chief as a justified response to perceived mistreatment of religious individuals, emphasizing the religious perspective and criticizing the military's handling of religious matters. The focus on the rabbi's lack of state funding aligns with a '
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): Factuality is high as the article reports statements made by Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi's son and denies claims of state funding, aligning with the cross-source consensus. Objectivity is lower due to the emotionally charged language and potential bias in presenting the rabbi's comments as controversial.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7520 days ago
Two 25-year-old haredi (ultra-Orthodox) draft dodgers were detained during a routine checkpoint stop in Ashdod. They contacted the 'Black Color' hotline, which mobilized around 100 haredi Jews to the scene. Police stated the protesters attempted to interfere with their operations but clarified the detainees were not formally arrested and the case was handed over to the Military Police. This incident occurred following broader protests by haredi groups against the military draft, which had previously disrupted major highways and the railway to the airport.
Bias read (Center): The article presents events factually without overtly favoring either side. It describes the actions of both the haredi activists and the police without evaluative language or emphasis on one perspective over the other. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the sequence of events rather than the
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): The article accurately reports the incident where Haredi activists rushed to an Ashdod checkpoint after draft dodgers were detained. It mentions the involvement of the 'Black Color' hotline and police statements. However, it lacks specific details about the exact date and does not reference the prim
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the graduation of the first-ever officer training course for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) soldiers in the Hashmonaim Brigade. The course adhered to standard IDF training protocols, allowing graduates to maintain their religious lifestyle while undergoing further training in the Gefen course and general infantry training. The graduates will assume officer roles within the Hashmonaim Brigade. The IDF described the initiative as a 'significant milestone' in efforts to increase the integration of Haredi individuals into leadership positions within the military, noting it is part of broader reforms aimed at accommodating the unique needs of the Haredi community.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the event as a positive development for integrating Haredi individuals into military leadership, but does not overtly favor one political ideology over another. It emphasizes the IDF's commitment to inclusivity and adaptation, without taking a clear partisan stance. The framing,
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir emphasized that soldiers should be prioritized in state policies following the Knesset's approval of a controversial Basic Law designating Torah study as a foundational Israeli value. This law has sparked significant debate, with critics claiming it aims to exempt ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students from military service by legally enshrining Torah study as a national value. The law comes amid ongoing tensions between the government and the Haredi community, which has staged mass protests against the arrest of draft dodgers. Meanwhile, the IDF faces severe personnel shortages due to reduced mandatory service periods and increased combat demands. Senior military officials have called for legislative action to address these challenges, including extending mandatory service and reforming reserve duty laws.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives on the controversy surrounding the Basic Law and highlights the concerns raised by the IDF regarding personnel shortages. It does not exhibit overtly biased language or one-sided sourcing, providing a balanced overview of the situation.
The article reports that Israel's Defense Minister has requested the Knesset to stop the arrest of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men who avoid military service. The request comes amid ongoing debates over national service obligations and religious exemptions. Haredi communities often exempt their members from mandatory conscription based on religious beliefs, leading to tensions between the state and these groups. The move by the defense minister reflects broader political and social discussions about balancing religious rights with national security needs.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the defense minister's request without overtly endorsing or criticizing the action. It frames the issue as a political and legal matter rather than taking a clear ideological stance. While the topic involves significant societal division, the reporting does not exhibit strong sl
The article discusses the growing movement among Israeli teenagers who view military service as a personal choice rather than an obligation. It highlights their arguments against mandatory conscription, emphasizing individual freedom and autonomy. These young Israelis challenge the traditional narrative that equates national duty with compulsory military service. The piece explores the cultural and social implications of this shift, suggesting it reflects broader generational attitudes toward state authority and civic responsibility. While the article presents the perspectives of these teens, it does not explicitly take a stance on the debate itself.
Bias read (Left): The article frames the debate around mandatory military service through the lens of individual rights and personal choice, which aligns with progressive values. It emphasizes the perspective of younger generations challenging established norms, suggesting a critique of authoritarian structures. The措
Haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ) announced they would cease supporting coalition legislation following the removal of a daycare subsidies bill from the Knesset agenda. The bill aimed to revise eligibility criteria for daycare subsidies based on a mother's income. Opponents argue it would extend subsidies to individuals avoiding military service, despite an ongoing manpower shortage in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The coalition reportedly did not have enough votes to pass the bill in its initial reading, with some coalition members, including those from Likud, opposing it.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the positions of the Haredi parties and their opponents without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from Shas and UTJ, mentions opposition concerns regarding the bill's potential impact on military service avoidance, and notes the lack of a majority for passage
The article discusses the concerns of Haredi rabbis regarding the potential military service of their followers in the Israeli army.
Bias read (Center): The article appears to present a balanced discussion of the concerns raised by Haredi rabbis without overtly favoring any particular perspective. It does not exhibit strong ideological language or one-sided sourcing.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel criticized legislation proposed by the governing coalition that would expand state-funded daycare subsidies for ultra-Orthodox (haredi) draft evaders. She described the policy as 'backstabbing' those serving in the military during wartime, arguing it undermines morale and rewards avoidance of service. The legislation changes eligibility for daycare subsidies to depend only on a mother's income, potentially allowing subsidies for families of draft evaders despite Israel's current manpower shortages. Haskel opposed the bill in a preliminary vote, despite it
Bias read (Right): The article presents criticism of a policy that expands benefits for draft evaders, framed as undermining military service. The framing emphasizes moral wrongdoing and betrayal of soldiers, aligning with a perspective that prioritizes military service and national security. The language used ('backb
An opinion piece by Michael Freund discusses the recent legislative proposal by Knesset members from Shas and United Torah Judaism to equate Torah study with military service in the IDF. The proposal faced public criticism and was revised following objections within the governing coalition. The author argues that Torah study is already a cornerstone of Jewish identity and does not require legal recognition to affirm its significance.
Bias read (Center): The article presents an opinion on a proposed legislative change without taking a clear ideological stance. It critiques the potential politicization of religious practices but does so in a balanced manner, acknowledging the cultural and historical significance of Torah study while noting the public
The Shin Bet is investigating haredi (ultra-Orthodox) anti-conscription protests following several disruptive incidents, including a violent demonstration outside the home of Supreme Court Justice Noam Solberg. The investigation is broad in scope and aims to assess whether future protests could pose a threat to government sites or officials. The incident at Justice Solberg's residence drew strong reactions from the judiciary, with the President of the Supreme Court and the Director of the Courts condemning it as an attack on the judicial system and the rule of law.
Bias read (Center): The article presents facts without overt ideological framing. It reports on the Shin Bet's investigation into protests and includes quotes from judicial authorities expressing concern over the attacks on the rule of law. There is no clear bias toward either side of the issue, and the language used (
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
IL
