The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the preliminary approval of a controversial bill in Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, that seeks to restrict the use of loudspeakers for the Islamic call to prayer (adhan) at mosques.
In an official statement, the OIC said the proposed legislation could undermine religious freedom and infringe upon the fundamental rights of Muslims.
The organization described the bill as a direct attack on Muslims’ right to practice their faith and on the sanctity of Islamic holy sites. It also argued that the proposal is inconsistent with internationally recognized principles protecting freedom of worship under international human rights law.
The OIC further characterized the bill as discriminatory and racist, alleging that it forms part of broader efforts to marginalize the Palestinian presence and erode the Arab and Islamic identity of the occupied territories. The organization therefore rejected the measure as unacceptable and called for it to be withdrawn.
The bill received preliminary approval in the 120-member Knesset by a vote of 50 to 36. Under the proposed legislation, mosques would be prohibited from installing or operating loudspeakers without prior authorization from the relevant authorities.
However, the bill has not yet become law. Under Israel’s legislative process, it must still pass three additional readings in the Knesset, each requiring majority approval before it can be enacted.
Source: Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Statement.