Jerusalem: Israeli government offices that
provide an array of public services are pulling the plug on
online payments on the Jewish Sabbath and holidays.
The move has created new potential for friction
between the religious minority and security majority in the
Jewish state.
Ultra-Orthodox Cabinet ministers are leading the
charge to enforce the religious prohibition on spending money
on Jewish holy days. But for non-religious residents, tourists
and foreign workers, the planned ban creates new
inconvenience.
Israelis and the thousands of foreign workers living
in Israel have been able to renew passports, extend their
visas or pay hospital fees online around the clock.
But now, the interior, health and religious affairs
ministries - all controlled by ultra-Orthodox parties - plan a
holy day payment blackout.
PTI
