The contentious nation-state bill was set to pass its final two readings in the Knesset plenum on Wednesday night, hours after a special committee agreed on its final language, despite broad objections.
The aim of the nation-state bill is to legally redefine Israel's official status as a "Jewish state with a democratic regime," rather than a "Jewish and democratic state," as it is defined today in Israel's basic laws.
If passed, the law will require the state to preserve the country's Jewish character and protect state symbols and sacred Jewish sites in accordance with Jewish tradition. The bill has gone through several iterations over the past few years but has stalled mainly because of its sensitive nature and political ramifications.
A provision that was originally included in the bill would have permitted communities to legally exclude non-Jews from residing in their jurisdiction. The attorney general criticized the provision as discriminatory and a violation of Israel's basic laws, which serve as Israel's de facto constitution.
On Sunday, the Likud and Habayit Hayehudi agreed to modify the contentious clause to stipulate that "the state considers the development of Jewish settlement to be a national priority and will work to encourage and strengthen it and its establishment."
The chief sponsor of the bill, MK Avi Dichter (Likud), called on lawmakers from both sides of the political divide to display unity when this bill comes up for a vote. "The maneuvers, lies and fake news are behind us; all MKs should vote for it and make history, or be left out of history," he said.
MK Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin (Zionist Union) said that "when I vote against the bill, tears will roll down my cheeks." She said the bill joins "the list of racist and discriminatory laws that cater to the right-wing base rather than the national interest."
