Opposition Blocks NIS 392 Million Transfer for Haredi Schools, Settlements

Opposition lawmakers prevented a vote on roughly NIS 392 million in coalition funding after an 11-hour Knesset Finance Committee session exceeded the time allowed during recess. More than NIS 284 million was earmarked for Haredi education and related Education Ministry programs, while about NIS 83 million was designated for the Settlements Ministry. The filibuster was aided by disagreements between Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and ultra-Orthodox parties over the allocation. Further consideration before the October 27 election would now require opposition consent.