The Ministerial Law Committee on Sunday, 11 Shevat 5774 approved a bill banning the use of symbols associated with the Nazi era, including the Yellow Star and striped uniforms similar to the blue and white striped uniforms worn by concentration camp inmates. Those violating the prohibition will be liable for six months imprisonment and a 100,000 NIS fine.

Displaying such items is however permitted for educational purposes, museum display and as part of historic testimony.

The bill was sponsored by MK (Likud/Beitenu) Yisrael Ochayon, who feels the use of such symbols is a painful affront to Holocaust survivors and their families.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)