Kotel Controversy: Coalition’s Prayer Bill Sparks Fears of Jewish Unity and Pluralism
Netanyahu’s coalition is pushing a bill that would place the Western Wall at the heart of the ultra-Orthodox Rabbinate, criminalizing prayers not approved by the Rabbinate with up to seven years in prison. Critics warn the move would ban egalitarian and women-led prayer, erode non-Orthodox Jewish practices, and threaten Jewish unity across the Diaspora. The piece notes ongoing debates over the 2016 compromise for a pluralistic space at the Kotel, funding gaps, and calls from diaspora leaders for the prime minister to oppose the measure and protect pluralism.