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

Opposition lawmakers in Israel successfully blocked the transfer of approximately NIS 392 million ($116 million) in coalition funds, primarily designated for Haredi education and the Settlements Ministry. The budget failed to pass during an 11-hour Knesset Finance Committee session due to a filibuster by opposition members, who deliberately prolonged the debate beyond the allotted time during a recess. This move was also influenced by internal disagreements between Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionism party and ultra-Orthodox parties regarding fund distribution. The funding, which included over NIS 284 million for Haredi education and around NIS 83 million for the Settlements Ministry (with NIS 67.5 million for "hilltop youth" programs), is now unlikely to be approved before the October 27 elections.