The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned a bill passed by Israel’s Knesset that seeks to restrict the use of loudspeakers for the call to prayer from mosques in Israel.
In its statement, the OIC described the measure as “null and void,” calling it a discriminatory and racist legislative act. It said the decision represents a serious violation of freedom of religion and worship, as well as cultural and religious rights protected under international law and human rights principles.
The bill was approved in a 50–36 vote in the 120-member Israeli parliament. It stipulates that no mosque will be allowed to install or operate sound systems without receiving explicit prior authorization from the relevant authorities.
However, the legislation is not yet final. It still requires approval through three additional readings in the Knesset before it can become law.
The OIC further stated that the bill reflects what it called a broader pattern of “racist Israeli decisions and legislation.” It said such measures aim to restrict Palestinian presence and undermine Arab and Islamic identity, adding that they amount to an attack on religious practices and Islamic holy sites.