Jerusalem (HRNW)- The Israeli Parliament (Knesset) has given preliminary approval to a controversial bill proposing restrictions on the use of loudspeakers for the Islamic call to prayer (Adhan) in mosques, prompting strong objections from Palestinian leaders, who describe the move as a violation of religious freedom.
According to Israeli media reports, the 120-member Knesset approved the bill in its first reading, with 50 lawmakers voting in favor and 36 against.
The bill was introduced by the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party, led by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and also received support from the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party.
Supporters of the legislation argue that loudspeaker broadcasts of the call to prayer contribute to noise pollution and therefore require stricter regulation.
According to Israeli Channel 14, the proposed law would also require mosques to obtain formal approval from the relevant authorities before installing or operating sound systems.
Reacting to the development, Palestinian National Council Chairman Rawhi Fattouh condemned the bill, describing it as a form of legal persecution and a violation of the fundamental right to freedom of religion and belief.
He said the call to prayer is not only a religious ritual but also an essential means of informing Muslims of prayer times, and that restricting loudspeakers would undermine this purpose.
The bill has not yet become law. It must pass three additional readings in the Knesset before it can be enacted.
The proposal has sparked renewed political and religious debate in both Israeli and Palestinian circles, with observers suggesting that, if ultimately approved, it could also attract international attention and criticism.
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