Gafni Slams Intra-Haredi Politics Over Conscription Law

Moshe Gafni, chairman of the Degel HaTorah party, has launched a sharp critique of internal Haredi politics concerning the conscription law. In a leaked recording, Gafni stated that his party will not allow other factions to make decisions "over their heads" ahead of the upcoming elections, emphasizing that Degel HaTorah will adhere to the directives of its Torah leaders.

Gafni asserted that Degel HaTorah is "realistic" and understands its position and the instructions it receives. He highlighted the party's long-standing reliance on the guidance of senior rabbis, naming several prominent figures he has consulted. "We will do what the Torah leaders tell us," Gafni declared, "I am with our Torah leaders today and I know their position."

A particularly pointed remark from Gafni questioned the timing of the conscription law's advancement, suggesting that the Ministry of Housing might be a factor in delaying its consideration until after the state budget is approved. "Suddenly they come with all sorts of new things, some of them tainted with interests," Gafni said. "Why does the conscription law need to pass after the budget? Because the Ministry of Housing needs to be arranged in the meantime?"

This statement is significant given the internal disagreements within Haredi parties regarding their engagement with the government and the conscription law. Gafni signaled that his party will adopt a firmer stance in the upcoming elections, stating, "These things will no longer happen. There will be elections, we will come here and commit to it."

Gafni described the past term as "very bad," attributing the treatment of the Haredi public partly to fear of their influence and educational system. He contrasted the Haredi community's approach with that of others, calling his community "the most convenient" coalition partners, as they do not engage in provocative actions like desecrating terrorist monuments or inciting conflict on the Temple Mount.

Concluding his remarks, Gafni affirmed Degel HaTorah's intention to enter the next election cycle with a more assertive approach, having learned lessons from the previous term. "These things will no longer happen. We will go for it with all our might," he vowed.