Support from the chareidi parties permitted the recent passage of the Nationality Law in Knesset, a law that defines the Jewish character of the state and Israel as the Jewish Homeland and Hebrew, as the national language. The bill was met with resolute objections from the opposition, including an audible outcry labeling the bill as “racist” by the Arab List MKs.

The chareidi lawmakers feared the passage of the bill, which they feel will further compromise Shabbos observance as well as permit official recognition of Reform Jewry. However, after receiving assurances from coalition chairman MK (Likud) David Bitan that the bill will be amended to their liking once passed into law, they backed it as demanded by PM Netanyahu. The prime minister threatened the chareidi parties that failure to pass the bill will result in early elections, which they do not want.

Three MKs have decided not to waste time and they have already filed a petition with the High Court of Justice, challenging the legitimacy of the law. This includes two coalition MKs and the third, a member of the opposition. The petition against the law was drafted by the Forum of the Druse Authority along with leaders of that community, a community that serves in the IDF and Israel Police, and has sacrificed many of its sons in the defense of the nation. The bill was filed by coalition MKs Hamad Amar (Yisrael Beitenu) and Akram Hasoon (Kulanu) along with opposition MK (Machane Tzioni) Saleh Saad.

Saad explained that his community serves in the IDF and the passage of the law is nothing less than “spitting in our faces”, calling the law “radical legislation”. Other opponents labeled the law “apartheid”.

MKs Benny Begin (Likud) and Orli Levy-Abekasis (independent/broke away from Yisrael Beitenu) abstained in the vote.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)