The Israeli parliament, known as the Knesset, has advanced a controversial bill that seeks to restrict the use of loudspeakers for the Islamic call to prayer from mosques.According to media reports, the bill was passed in its preliminary reading with a vote of 50-36 in the 120-member parliament.

The proposed legislation is aimed at tightening enforcement against what Israeli lawmakers described as “mosque noise,” and it would require stricter controls on the use of sound systems in religious places.The bill has been introduced by the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, which is led by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

It also reportedly received backing from the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party, led by Avigdor Lieberman, indicating cross-party support on the issue.

As per Channel 14, the draft law stipulates that no sound system may be installed or operated in any mosque without explicit prior authorisation from the relevant authorities.The legislation has sparked strong criticism from Palestinian representatives.Rawhi Fattouh, head of the Palestinian National Council, described the move as a “crime” and a form of “legislative terrorism.” He further stated that the bill represents a clear violation of freedom of worship and religious belief.Although the bill has cleared its initial stage, it still needs to pass three additional readings in the Knesset before it can become law.

Observers note that if enacted, the law could significantly impact religious practices in Muslim communities across Israel, raising concerns about religious freedom and civil liberties in the region.