Knesset Restores Chief Rabbinate’s Kosher Monopoly: A Victory for Jewish Unity

In a decisive move late Tuesday night, the Knesset voted 46-41 to pass legislation restoring the Chief Rabbinate’s exclusive control over kosher certification in Israel. This law, championed by the Shas party, reverses reforms from the previous government that allowed private Orthodox organizations to issue kosher certificates in their own name, provided they met state standards.

Why This Law Matters for Israeli Identity

For the Jewish state, kosher certification is not just a religious matter; it is a cornerstone of national identity and unity. The right to use the word “kosher” on food labeling is highly regulated, with only certification bodies recognized by the Rabbinate allowed to v