Naftali Bennett Advocates for Civil Marriage and Public Transportation on Shabbat

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has publicly expressed support for civil marriage and public transportation on Shabbat, igniting backlash from ultra-Orthodox parties in Israel. In a recent interview with Army Radio, Bennett stated, “Cities must be allowed to choose if they want public transportation on Shabbat,” and emphasized that “every person in Israel should be able to realize their love in this country and not travel abroad” for civil marriage. This marks a significant shift from his previous stance as the leader of the right-wing Jewish Home party, where he opposed same-sex marriage due to religious beliefs.

The Jerusalem PostTimes of Israel

In Israel, civil marriage is not recognized, as the religious status quo mandates that Jews can only marry through the rabbinate. This has led many couples, particularly same-sex couples, to seek civil ceremonies abroad, which are later acknowledged upon their return. Bennett's recent remarks indicate a potential departure from traditional religious views, aligning with a broader push from opposition parties to reform the current religious framework governing marriage and public services.

The Jerusalem Post

Bennett's proposals have drawn sharp criticism from the haredi parties, including the Shas and United Torah Judaism. Shas accused Bennett of being willing to “sell the Jewish identity of the state” for political gain, warning that such actions could lead to further compromises regarding the Land of Israel. United Torah Judaism chairman Yitzhak Goldknopf dismissed Bennett's promises as insincere, labeling him a “deceiver” and questioning his commitment to traditional values.

Times of Israel

Conversely, Bennett's stance has been welcomed by leaders from the left-wing opposition. Yair Golan, head of the Democrats Party, praised Bennett for his evolution on these issues, stating that “it’s heartening to see that even in politics there are positive surprises.” Golan emphasized the need for a liberal approach to governance, suggesting that Bennett's shift could signal a broader acceptance of civil rights within Israeli politics.

The Jerusalem Post

Bennett's recent statements come as he seeks to unify the Zionist-liberal opposition bloc, which includes prominent figures such as Yair Lapid and Gadi Eisenkot. Discussions are reportedly underway to form a new political party, tentatively named “New Israel,” aimed at advancing these progressive policies. The opposition has also indicated plans to introduce legislation that would further diminish the power of the rabbinate, including proposals for civil marriage and public transportation on Shabbat in secular-majority localities.

The Jerusalem Post

While Bennett maintains a hawkish defense stance, typical of right-wing politics, he has expressed a desire to collaborate across the political spectrum. He has stated that the issue of a Palestinian state is no longer the primary concern among opposition parties, reflecting a shift in focus within Israeli political discourse. However, there remains a lack of consensus on the future of governance and the role of religious authority in Israeli society, highlighting ongoing tensions between secular and religious factions.

The Jerusalem Post

• “every person in Israel should be able to realize their love in this country and not travel abroad” — Naftali Bennett, Former Prime Minister

Times of Israel

• “Those ready to trade away the country’s Jewish identity, our sacred Shabbat and marriage according to the laws of Moses and Israel, for political gain, will inevitably do the same with the Land of Israel and the communities in Judea and Samaria,” — Shas Party Statement

Times of Israel

• “It’s heartening to see that even in politics there are positive surprises, and that even on the right they understand that only a strong liberal Israel will prevail,” — Yair Golan, Democrats Party Chairman

Times of Israel