For the first time, the new coalition’s agreements did not include a commitment to the “status quo” that has governed the ties between religion and the state since Israel’s creation. Under the agreement the government has maintained the decades-old norms regarding public observance of Jewish tradition.
The religious-Zionist group Neemanei Hatorah Veha’avoda welcomed the change. “This is a historically significant achievement, a precedent that will allow change for the better,” a statement from the organization said.