Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Knesset Passes Torah Study Law, Limits Court on Haredi Exemptions

7/15/2026

50 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Knesset approved Basic Law: Torah Study on July 13, 2026 by a 63-52 vote, making Torah study a value.
Over 1,000 Haredi men have enlisted since the Oct. 7 attacks despite the law.
Yaakov Asher and Moshe Gafni of United Torah Judaism sponsored the bill and removed ‘significant service’ label.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said exemption talks are postponed and the law may limit the High Court’s power to overturn Haredi exemptions.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Knesset approved Basic Law: Torah Study on July 13, 2026 by a 63-52 vote, making Torah study a value.
Over 1,000 Haredi men have enlisted since the Oct. 7 attacks despite the law.
Yaakov Asher and Moshe Gafni of United Torah Judaism sponsored the bill and removed ‘significant service’ label.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said exemption talks are postponed and the law may limit the High Court’s power to overturn Haredi exemptions.