Israeli lawmakers on Wednesday voted in a preliminary reading to approve a bill that will restrict the use and volume of mosque loudspeakers across the country, according to the Palestine News Agency. The bill, introduced by Knesset member Zvika Fogel from the right-wing Otzma Yehudit party led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, passed with 50 votes in favor and 36 against.
Bill Details and Requirements
The proposed legislation, referred to as the "muezzin bill," targets the call to prayer (adhan) proclaimed by the muezzin five times daily, including the predawn Fajr prayer. If enacted, mosques would be required to obtain a permit to use loudspeakers. Non-compliant mosques could face fines of up to 50,000 shekels (approximately $16,700). Additionally, police would have the authority to confiscate loudspeakers and issue fines of 10,000 shekels ($3,340) for repeated violations.
Political Support and Opposition
The bill received support from the opposition party Yisrael Beytenu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, as well as from the ultra-Orthodox party Shas, which is part of the government coalition. The preliminary vote passed with 50 in favor and 36 against. The bill requires three additional votes before it can be enacted into law. Critics argue that the measure targets religious freedom and could exacerbate tensions with the Muslim community in Israel and the occupied territories.
