Meanwhile in Knesset

Jewish Board acting suprised. Recent discussions in Israel’s Knesset (Parliament) have addressed allegations of systematic ritual abuse within certain ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jewish communities, including cases of child abuse, cult-like coercion, and financial exploitation. These hearings have sparked fierce debates, with some accusing the Israeli government of covering up the scandals to protect religious institutions.

1. Key Cases of Alleged Ritual Abuse
A. Child Sexual Abuse in Haredi Communities
Multiple testimonies from victims describe rabbi-led abuse networks operating under omertà (silence codes).

Whistleblowers have faced threats and ostracization for speaking out.

Cover-up mechanisms:

Rabbinical courts (Beit Din) often handle abuse cases internally, preventing police involvement.

"Mesirah" prohibition – A Jewish law forbidding Jews from reporting other Jews to secular authorities.

B. Financial and Psychological Exploitation
Gur Hasidic Dynasty – Accused of coercing followers into massive donations while living in poverty.

Bratslav (Na Nach) Cult – Reports of brainwashing and forced servitude among followers.

C. Ritualistic Violence
While mainstream media dismisses "blood libel" claims, some fringe investigations allege underground cults engaging in extreme Kabbalistic rituals.

2. Knesset Responses & Political Obstacles
A. Government Reluctance to Intervene
Haredi political parties (Shas, United Torah Judaism) hold kingmaker power in coalitions, leading to soft treatment of abuse cases.

Police investigations are often blocked or delayed under rabbinical pressure.

B. Recent Hearings (2023–2024)
Knesset Committee on Child Welfare has held closed-door sessions on abuse in yeshivas.

Activists demand:

Mandatory secular education (to prevent indoctrination).

End to "mesirah" enforcement.

Independent oversight of religious schools.

C. Media Blackout?
Israeli mainstream media (Haaretz, Ynet) reports sparingly on these cases, fearing backlash.

Independent outlets (e.g., The Forward, Failed Messiah) provide more critical coverage.

3. Comparisons to Historical Scandals
Scandal Similarities
Catholic Church abuse cover-ups Rabbinical courts act like "Jewish Vatican" in shielding predators.
Satanic Panic (1980s) Some claims resemble conspiracy theories, but real abuse exists.
Hassidic tax fraud (USA) Financial exploitation parallels spiritual abuse.
4. Why This Matters Beyond Israel
Dual loyalty accusations – If Israel protects abusers, it fuels global anti-Jewish sentiment.

Zionist hypocrisy – Claims of "most moral army" clash with tolerance of religious crimes.

Future of Judaism – Will reformers or ultra-Orthodox hardliners dominate?

https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2025-06-11/israeli-lawmakers-accused-abusing-
children-satanic-sex-rituals
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Recommended Sources:

Unorthodox (Deborah Feldman) – Exposes Satmar abuse.

The Awareness Center – Jewish anti-abuse advocacy.

Knesset official records (limited public access).