Bennett Proposes Alternative Haredi Draft Plan, Criticizes Current System

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, now chairman of the 'B'echaD' party, unveiled an alternative plan for the conscription of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men, sharply criticizing the existing system. Bennett stated that the Haredi community is not to blame, but rather the system that has educated them against Zionism and democracy. He dismissed common solutions, such as Haredi officials determining exemption percentages, calling them impractical and likely to lead to corruption and discrimination. Bennett also rejected punitive measures like imprisonment or military service for those unwilling to draft, predicting they would incite rebellion.

Instead, Bennett proposed a plan centered on economic and educational incentives. "Anyone who does not enlist will not receive a shekel from the State of Israel. Anyone who does not work will not receive a shekel from the State of Israel," he declared. His proposal includes establishing yeshivas on the border that would allow for the release of reservists, as these students would also perform guard duties. Bennett also addressed Haredi education funding, stating that parents who wish to send their children to institutions that discourage military service should do so at their own expense, not the public's.

The remarks were made amidst a heated election campaign, with Bennett's 'B'echaD' party positioning itself as an alternative to the current Netanyahu government. The party recently submitted its list for the 26th Knesset, highlighting its diverse leadership including former prime ministers and ministers, and numerous reservists. The 'B'echaD' party chose the Hebrew letter 'Bet', historically associated with Religious Zionism, signaling a strategic move in the political landscape. The issue of Haredi conscription has been a subject of intense public debate recently, with various figures presenting differing viewpoints.