Naftali Bennett Proposes Alternative Haredi Draft Plan
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, now chair of the 'B'Achad' party, has unveiled an alternative proposal for the conscription of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the IDF. Speaking at a cultural event in the Megiddo Regional Council, Bennett stated that the Haredi community is not to blame for the current situation, but rather the system that has educated them against Zionism and democracy. He criticized existing proposals, including those involving Haredi officials determining exemption percentages, calling them impractical and likely to lead to corruption and discrimination. Bennett also dismissed punitive measures like imprisonment or military service for police, predicting they would incite rebellion.
Instead, Bennett's plan focuses on economic and educational incentives. He declared that individuals who do not enlist or work will not receive state funding. His proposal includes establishing yeshivas near the border that would allow reservists to be released from duty, as these students would also perform guard duties. Bennett also addressed Haredi education funding, suggesting that parents who wish to send their children to institutions that discourage military service should do so at their own expense, not at the public's or the serving soldiers' cost.
The announcement comes amid a heated election campaign where 'B'Achad' aims to position itself as an alternative to the current Netanyahu government. Bennett recently met with Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, to discuss election strategies. The 'B'Achad' party recently submitted its list for the 26th Knesset, highlighting its diverse leadership, including former prime ministers and ministers, and numerous reservists with extensive service during the 'Swords of Iron' war. The party chose the Hebrew letter 'Bet' for its Knesset symbol, historically associated with Religious Zionism, foregoing the letter 'Pei' used by Yair Lapid's party.
The public discourse surrounding Haredi conscription has been intense, with various viewpoints emerging. Notably, Brigadier General (res.) Ram Aminach, former financial advisor to the IDF Chief of Staff, recently criticized proposed changes to conscription rules, describing them as a 'persecution out of hatred' targeting Haredi men with families.
