Otzma Yehudit

Israel's Knesset approved a bill in its preliminary reading to ban the broadcasting of the call to prayer from mosques via loudspeakers. The legislation, introduced by Otzma Yehudit and backed by Yisrael Beiteinu, requires explicit authorization for mosque sound systems. Palestinian National Council head Rawhi Fattouh condemned the bill as a violation of freedom of worship.

The Israeli Knesset passed a preliminary reading of a bill proposed by Otzma Yehudit to limit mosque loudspeakers, requiring permits for public address systems and granting police authority to confiscate equipment in case of violations. The bill carries a fine of up to 50,000 shekels and passed with 50 votes in favor and 36 against, needing three readings to take effect. The article also references Palestinian Muslim worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque Complex in Jerusalem.

The Knesset advanced a bill proposed by far-right MK Zvika Fogel to reduce the volume of mosque calls to prayer. Fogel framed the bill as addressing equal law enforcement, while Arab lawmakers highlighted the lack of efforts to address violent crime in their community.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir rejected a potential ceasefire in Lebanon, calling for the country to be 'Israel's playground' and urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to defy US President Donald Trump. He threatened Beirut, comparing its potential destruction to Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza, and rejected separating Hezbollah from broader military targets in Lebanon.

A poll shows 60% of Otzma Yehudit voters and 40% of Religious Zionism voters oppose a government coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties, while Likud is the only Zionist party with a majority of supporters in favor of such a coalition.

Israeli far-right ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and another unnamed official called for escalating military operations in Lebanon, including strikes on Beirut and cutting electricity, despite ongoing peace talks. Ben Gvir, leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, urged Prime Minister to pursue war with Lebanon in response to Hezbollah drone attacks.