Opposition blocks transfer of NIS 392 million in coalition funds for Haredi schools, settlements

Opposition lawmakers blocked a NIS 392 million budget transfer for Haredi education and settlements after an 11-hour filibuster, aided by coalition infighting. The funding is unlikely to pass before the October 27 elections.

Opposition lawmakers on Wednesday blocked the transfer of approximately NIS 392 million ($116 million) in coalition funds earmarked primarily for Haredi education and the Settlements Ministry. The funding failed to secure approval after an 11-hour Knesset Finance Committee marathon session ran past the allotted time for parliamentary meetings during a recess. The delay was aided by a filibuster by opposition lawmakers and internal disagreements between Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and ultra-Orthodox parties over fund distribution. The funding included over NIS 284 million for Haredi education and NIS 83 million for the Settlements Ministry, including NIS 67.5 million for programs serving hilltop youth. The government sought approval after the Knesset's dissolution, prompting accusations of trying to shore up the ruling coalition ahead of the October 27 elections.