Orthodox Conscription Key to Israel's Survival, Warns Lawmaker Meirav Cohen

Member of Knesset Meirav Cohen has made the conscription of the ultra-Orthodox community a central issue in the upcoming election campaign, following the submission of the "Yachad" slate led by Naftali Bennett to the Central Elections Committee. In an interview with Arutz Sheva-Israel National News, Cohen described the upcoming elections as "historic" and praised former Prime Minister Bennett as a leader capable of addressing Israel's security and social challenges.

Cohen asserted that universal conscription is necessary to end draft evasion and dismantle the political control exerted by ultra-Orthodox educational institutions. She argued that the issue transcends mere equality, directly impacting the nation's survival. "Without this, there will be no more State of Israel. Who will defend the borders?" she questioned, referencing ongoing military conflicts, fallen soldiers, and the approximately 26,000 wounded.

Acknowledging divisions within the bloc opposing Benjamin Netanyahu, which includes figures like Naftali Bennett, Gadi Eisenkot, and Avigdor Liberman, Cohen urged the various parties to coordinate their campaigns. Her goal is to prevent any party from falling below the electoral threshold and to boost voter turnout.

Cohen believes that after the election, the bloc's leaders must convene and select a joint candidate for prime minister based on the results. "We will not let any personal considerations stand in the way, because the State of Israel is in danger," she stated. She also addressed changes to the "Yachad" slate and the removal of certain figures from eligible positions, calling it a "difficult" but necessary decision for political renewal.