Study Sees Secular and Religious Israelis Both Unhappy with Status Quo

A new study commissioned by an Israeli organization quantifies the gap between the nation’s religious and secular populations. A poll conducted by the Smith organization for Hidush, an NGO dedicated to religious freedom and equality, shows religious Israelis (specifically Haredi — Jews living under rabbinic diktat) criticizing Israeli charging that the government is “too pluralistic” and secular Jews arguing that there is not enough religious freedom. Groups more moderate in their religious views also expressed discontent with the government. The survey was apparently an effort to demonstrate widespread support for Prime Minister Netanyahu to re-organize his government, replacing Haredi with secular parties, including bringing the opposition Kadima into the coalition.