Israel has introduced heavy fines for using loudspeakers in mosques

Israeli authorities have tightened regulations on the use of sound equipment in religious institutions, introducing a system of mandatory prior authorizations and significant monetary penalties for violations. The new measures also give law enforcement agencies the authority to immediately stop broadcasts and seize equipment.

Israel’s Ministerial Committee on Legislation approved a bill imposing new restrictions on broadcasting the call to prayer, Middle East Monitor reported. According to the document, the use of loudspeakers is now banned by default, and religious communities must undergo a special approval process to qualify for the call to prayer.

When granting permits, officials will evaluate in detail the noise level and the proximity of the mosque to residential neighborhoods. Police officers have been authorized to immediately interrupt broadcasts if they suspect a violation of the rules, and in case of repeated incidents, law enforcement officials are allowed to confiscate sound equipment.

The government has imposed severe financial penalties for non-compliance with the new regulations. Operating sound systems without an official permit will result in a fine of 50,000 NIS (about $17,410). For violation of certain conditions within the framework of the already obtained permit provides for a penalty of 10 thousand shekels.

Recall, earlier we reported that the Administration of Donald Trump together with the Government of Israel is actively working on a large-scale plan to change the status of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The project involves depriving the Hashemite Monarchy of Jordan of its historical right to manage the complex of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and turning the holy site into an international interfaith center.