Yossi Fuchs defends Torah‑study bill as Knesset debates yeshiva student arrests

Government Secretary Yossi Fuchs told the public radio program Kol Ha‑Yam that the proposed Basic Law on Torah study is a short, uncontroversial measure that would elevate Torah learning to a constitutional value. He said the law should face little difficulty in the Knesset, though opponents warn it could create constitutional balancing with other rights.

Fuchs also addressed the emergency order to freeze arrests of yeshiva‑age draft‑evaders, calling the issue procedurally complex and subject to Supreme Court challenges, but insisting the government will push the measure forward. He argued that current service‑law already obliges every Israeli to serve, with no exemptions, and that the arrests are ineffective and could discourage families from sending children to the army.

The comments sparked a heated response from Haredi ministers. Meir Porush left the committee room, calling Fuchs’ statements “nonsense,” while Yitzhak Goldknopf accused the secretary of insulting the yeshiva world and demanded greater respect. The government also announced plans to expand the education ministry’s inspection of yeshivas, further inflaming coalition tensions.