[106359] Naftali Bennett: We will stop funding religious institutions that promote incitement against the Chief of Staff

Political confrontation over public funding for religious institutions

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett launched a harsh attack today (30.06.2026) against the continued government funding of religious institutions that attack senior military command. Bennett referred to Rabbi Yazdi's Kollel, which called Chief of Staff Zamir by severe derogatory terms, and revealed that the institution enjoys annual government support totaling 653,000 NIS from taxpayer money.

According to News from the Field on Telegram, which is identified with critical positions toward the current government and Netanyahu, Bennett stated that in the next government he intends to "put an end to this." He coined the slogan: "This is the state's new agreement with the citizens of Israel: Not Zionist - not on my dime."

Ynet News, which maintains an official and neutral journalistic line in its reporting, also reported on Bennett's remarks under the headline "Bennett on the incitement against the Chief of Staff." The report highlighted the exact amount transferred to the institution, while emphasizing Bennett's statement that the state will not continue to fund those who engage in incitement rhetoric against the Chief of Staff.

The issue reflects growing tension in the political system surrounding the question of public budgeting for institutions that maintain a non-Zionist lifestyle, alongside criticism of the political echelon's conduct toward radical elements in Israeli society.