Story perspectives

Knesset Approves Controversial Religious Courts Arbitration Bill

3/25/2026

Center

Knesset Passes Arbitration Bill

The Knesset passed the Religious Courts Arbitration Bill, expanding rabbinic and Sharia courts’ civil-arbitration authority (65–41).
The bill, initiated by ultra-Orthodox parties, requires mutual consent for arbitration and excludes criminal matters and disputes involving married couples.
Critics, including opposition leaders, say it harms women’s rights and Israel’s democratic character, especially during wartime.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett condemned the law as creating a 'halachic state' and harming individual rights.

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Ben-Gvir's Controversial Bill

The Israeli Knesset will vote on a controversial bill pushed by Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, before Passover.
The National Security Council and Shin Bet warn of backlash.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted the draft's severity relative to U.S. capital punishment.
Amendments remove mandatory death sentences and redefine terror victims to avoid discrimination.
Critics say the bill may violate international law and invite foreign action against leaders.

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Knesset Passes Arbitration Bill

The Knesset passed the Religious Courts Arbitration Bill, expanding rabbinic and Sharia courts’ civil-arbitration authority (65–41).
The bill, initiated by ultra-Orthodox parties, requires mutual consent for arbitration and excludes criminal matters and disputes involving married couples.
Critics, including opposition leaders, say it harms women’s rights and Israel’s democratic character, especially during wartime.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett condemned the law as creating a 'halachic state' and harming individual rights.

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