Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has passed several contentious bills ahead of an election, sparking opposition and public outcry. The legislation includes a law enshrining Torah study as a foundational state value and granting temporary immunity to ultra-Orthodox draft evaders.

Legislative Push

The bills were rushed through Israel’s parliament in the government’s closing days, with Netanyahu’s absence during the vote not slowing the legislative push. The laws are primarily designed to satisfy the demands of his ultra-Orthodox and far-right allies, analysts say.

The most politically charged element of the package was legislation that enshrines the mass evasion of ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, youth from military service. While Israeli law requires all 18-year-olds to serve, ultra-Orthodox men have long been exempted under historic arrangements the Supreme Court has repeatedly struck down.

Public Opposition

Public opinion appears sharply opposed to the core of the legislative push. A July survey suggested that 66% of Israelis oppose the Torah-study basic law, while 61% would rather see the next government exclude ultra-Orthodox parties altogether.

Netanyahu’s opponents have seized the issue as a major campaign theme, denouncing what they call a reckless deal between Netanyahu and his ultra-Orthodox allies. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called it a low, anti-Zionist moment, accusing the government of showing contempt for soldiers, their families, and the public they serve.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.