Israeli Leaders Clash Over Haredi Draft Evasion

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, fiercely criticized Aryeh Deri, chairman of the Shas party, for his remarks suggesting the IDF should handle the issue of Haredi conscription without explicit calls for enlistment from religious leaders. Lieberman labeled Deri as "the number one encourager of draft evasion in Israel," adding that Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, a revered former Sephardic chief rabbi, would be "turning in his grave."

Naftali Bennett, head of the Yamina party, also condemned Deri's statement, calling it a lie and an excuse. Bennett expressed his inability to sit in a government where the IDF is in dire need of soldiers while Deri offers such justifications. He stated, "The IDF is crying out for soldiers and Deri is lying and making excuses."

Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the "Yashar!" movement, directly addressed Deri, declaring, "Aryeh, it's over. This time you will deal with it. The rampant and irresponsible mass draft evasion under the auspices of the Israeli government will end!"

The exchange highlights the ongoing political tension surrounding the military conscription of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men, a deeply divisive issue in Israeli society and politics.