image sourced from original article at The Knesset Finance Committee is meeting to vote on substantial budget transfers, with a significant portion directed toward the ultra-Orthodox sector. Despite recent political shifts that saw key ultra-Orthodox parties leave the coalition, hundreds of millions of shekels are set to be allocated to the Haredi school system for staff training, salaries, summer programs, and transportation.
These transfers are part of a larger package totaling about NIS 346 million, mainly benefiting the Haredi and religious-Zionist communities. Critics argue that the allocations reflect political deals rather than addressing pressing national needs, especially during wartime and with public services under strain.
The committee's actions have drawn sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers, who question the timing and priorities of the budget decisions. The vote coincides with government plans to call up more reservists and follows controversy over the removal of a senior lawmaker from a key defense committee, linked to debates over military draft exemptions for yeshiva students.
