Haredi MK Calls for Release of Draft Dodgers Ahead of Holidays

Member of Knesset Yitzhak Goldknopf, chairman of the United Torah Judaism party, visited Military Prison 10 and urged the Defense Minister to ease regulations for Haredi draft dodgers, calling for their release before the upcoming Jewish High Holidays. Goldknopf stated that these individuals should be home with their families for the holidays, not imprisoned like "common criminals."

During his visit, Goldknopf met with Haredi men being held at the facility for desertion, reportedly for the "offense of studying Torah." He expressed disappointment with the conditions and strict procedures, claiming the detainees were suffering from hunger and illness and were being treated with excessive severity.

Goldknopf appealed directly to the Defense Minister, requesting a joint review of the prison's regulations. He questioned whether the stringent rules were appropriate for individuals detained, in his view, due to their religious studies. He specifically pointed to the upcoming Sukkot holiday, questioning why detainees should celebrate in prison instead of with their families.

"These people are hungry, these people don't feel well," Goldknopf said, adding that they were being subjected to overly strict measures. He concluded by reiterating his plea for their release, emphasizing that they belong with their families during the festive period.