Shas Demands Draft Law Before Joining Next Israeli Government, Rejects Gadi Eizenkot for PM

Shas party member of Knesset Yoav Ben-Tzur stated in an interview on the political podcast "120 and One" that Shas will insist on passing a military draft law before joining the next Israeli government. He emphasized that the party remains committed to the right-wing bloc but will not support Gadi Eizenkot for prime minister, describing him as too left-leaning. Ben-Tzur, who served as labor minister in the outgoing government, acknowledged recent challenges for Shas, including declining poll numbers and criticism over its stance on military conscription for ultra-Orthodox youth.

Ben-Tzur defended Shas's approach to the draft issue, explaining the party's historical position that Torah students should be exempt from service, while those not studying must serve in the military or national service. He stressed the need for conditions that allow ultra-Orthodox soldiers to maintain their religious identity in the army, warning against forcing them into environments that could lead them to abandon their faith. He also criticized the government's failure to pass a draft law during the previous coalition, calling it a major mistake that contributed to current tensions.

Addressing the burden on reservists and their families amid ongoing conflicts, Ben-Tzur said arrests of draft dodgers have not been effective and highlighted Shas's efforts to support reservists through labor protections. He also rejected accusations that the ultra-Orthodox community failed to assist during recent crises, citing his ministry's aid programs. On political alliances, Ben-Tzur confirmed Shas's intention to remain in the right-wing camp and ruled out joining a government without Netanyahu as prime minister.

Regarding accusations that Shas has become similar to other ultra-Orthodox parties, Ben-Tzur insisted Shas maintains a unique identity, appealing also to traditional and Sephardic voters in peripheral areas. He affirmed Shas as a Zionist party, supportive of Israel and Jerusalem, though defining Zionism differently than some others. Reflecting on the past term, Ben-Tzur praised Shas's achievements in welfare, health, and labor ministries, including raising the minimum wage, while acknowledging shortcomings in addressing the high cost of living. He expressed confidence in Israel's economic stability despite ongoing security challenges.

Ben-Tzur concluded that Shas will only join a future government if a draft law is enacted beforehand, underscoring the party's firm stance on this issue as central to its political strategy going forward.