The controversial nation-state bill was scheduled to face its first committee reading on Tuesday, following a lengthy drafting process, prolonged over disagreements within the coalition.
The legislative proposal defines Israel as a "Jewish state with a democratic regime" rather than a "Jewish and democratic state." Under the bill's provisions, the state would be required to preserve the Jewish character of the state and protect state symbols and sacred Jewish sites according to Jewish tradition. Once enacted, the bill will be one of Israel's basic laws, which have been recognized by the courts as a de facto constitution.
The contentious legislation, introduced by Likud MK Avi Dichter, passed its preliminary parliamentary reading last year. Given the nature of the bill, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has tasked a special committee, headed by Likud MK Amir Ohana, to debate its final wording prior to presenting it to the Knesset for its first reading.
Dichter told Israel Hayom Monday that "over the past few weeks I have teamed with [Tourism] Minister Yariv Levin and MK Amir Ohana, and with the leadership of Prime Minister Netanyahu, to ensure the bill will pass the committee's vote ahead of its first reading."
Dichter stressed that the bill does not undermine the rights of minorities in Israel.
Kulanu MK Roy Folkman noted that "the agreements we have reached have created the proper balance in the law with respect to Israel being a Jewish and democratic state."
