Israel’s parliament has moved forward with legislation aimed at banning the Muslim call to prayer, known as the Azaan, from being broadcast over loudspeakers. This initiative has provoked strong criticism from Palestinian representatives, who argue that it violates the right to freedom of worship.
The 120-member Knesset approved the bill in its initial reading on Wednesday, with 50 votes in favor and 36 against. The legislation was introduced by the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and received support from the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party, headed by Avigdor Lieberman.
The bill seeks to impose stricter regulations on what it terms “mosque noise.” reports, it would mandate prior authorization before any mosque could install or operate sound systems. If passed, this law would effectively bar mosques from using loudspeakers to broadcast the Azaan, which traditionally signals prayer times to worshippers.
In a significant development, Rawhi Fattouh, head of the Palestinian National Council, condemned the bill as a “crime” and described it as “legislative terrorism.” He stated that the measure infringes upon freedom of worship and belief, accusing Israel of deliberately targeting Islamic religious customs.
While the bill has passed its preliminary stage, it still requires three additional readings in the Knesset before becoming law. If enacted, it would impose new limitations on mosque loudspeaker use throughout Israel, representing a further point of contention in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
