Former PM Bennett Warns of IDF Collapse Amid Draft Evasion

Former Israeli Prime Minister and "Achinu" party leader Naftali Bennett issued a stark strategic warning on Tuesday, stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is on the verge of collapse due to widespread draft evasion.

Speaking at a "Failure Memorial" tent in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, Bennett directly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of encouraging mass draft avoidance and dismantling the military. Bennett asserted that the IDF is facing a critical shortage of 20,000 combat soldiers, a situation he claims is directly endangering lives. He cited reports from soldiers on the ground who say personnel shortages lead to casualties from drone attacks due to a lack of observation and sniper protection, and that prolonged operational rotations are exhausting soldiers, leading to preventable losses.

Bennett further explained that soldiers are forced to abandon captured positions because there aren't enough personnel to hold them, necessitating costly recaptures. He warned that if the government does not enlist Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the military in the upcoming term, the IDF will "simply collapse."

Bennett's remarks came shortly after Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a warning from Tel Nof Airbase that enemies might attempt to attack Israel ahead of elections, vowing a strong response. Bennett characterized voting for Netanyahu's "evasion coalition" as a vote against IDF soldiers and reservists. He also called for an investigation into the "terrible failure" of October 7th, stating that all involved should be removed from their positions.

Following Netanyahu's statement, opposition leader Yair Lapid requested an urgent security briefing, which is scheduled for 11:30 PM. Netanyahu is also slated to hold a security discussion prior to this meeting.