Knesset Panel Advances Torah Study Basic Law 10-4

The Knesset House Committee approved the Basic Law: Torah Study bill for first reading Tuesday by a 10-4 vote, with a revision request still pending and the plenum vote expected Wednesday. The bill would declare Torah study a foundational value in the heritage of the Jewish people and the State of Israel; supporters said it is declarative and will not reduce rights or benefits for soldiers and reservists. Deputy Attorney General Avital Sompolinsky warned the text does not yet answer weighty questions about purpose, haredi status, duties and rights. Israel should honor Torah learning while writing a durable service framework that protects IDF manpower, equality before the law and coalition stability.