A new survey by the Smith Institute for the Hiddush organization for religious freedom in Israel has found that a majority of the Israeli Jewish public supports freedom of marriage, with a significant portion preferring non-Orthodox options if they were legally available. According to the findings, 60% of the Jewish public supports Israel recognizing all types of marriages, including civil, Conservative, and Reform ceremonies.
The poll, which was conducted in late July 2025, found that this support is widespread, extending into coalition parties. A majority of 56% of Likud voters and even 24% of Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit voters support freedom of marriage. Among opposition voters, the support is even stronger, with 85% of those intending to vote for Bennett’s new party backing the measure.
The survey also asked respondents what type of marriage they would choose if all options were legally equal. The results indicate that only a slim majority of the Jewish public – 53% – would choose an Orthodox marriage. The rest would opt for alternative frameworks, with 14% choosing a Conservative or Reform marriage, 11% choosing a civil marriage abroad, 11% choosing a “Utah marriage,” and 11% choosing to live together without any official marriage.
This preference for alternatives is particularly pronounced in certain demographics. While 99% of Haredi and 85% of religious respondents would choose an Orthodox marriage, only 16% of secular people would do the same. Similarly, only 22% of immigrants from CIS countries would prefer to marry in an Orthodox ceremony.
61% support 'Utah Marriages'
The poll also gauged public opinion on “Utah marriages,” which are conducted remotely via Zoom from Israel, with the marriage being legally officiated in the US state of Utah. Despite only 37% of the public being aware of this option, a strong majority of 61% supports it. The findings suggest a high potential for increased use of this method as public awareness grows, as 39% of those who supported “Utah marriages” were not familiar with the option before being asked about it.
Advocate Dr. Yifat Solel, deputy director of the Hiddush organization, emphasized that the survey results underscore a clear public mandate. “The data shows what we all know, that the citizens of Israel want freedom in marriage and the abolition of Orthodox coercion and control,” she said. Dr. Solel argued that Israel must “be free and embark on a path of openness and recognition of the needs and desires of its citizens.” She concluded by stating that all Israelis have the right to marry according to their beliefs, without needing to depend on the Rabbinate, seek out “Utah marriages,” or leave the country to register their union.