Former PM Bennett Warns of IDF Collapse Amid Draft Evasion

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett issued a stark strategic warning on Tuesday, asserting that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are on the verge of collapse due to widespread draft evasion and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies. Speaking at the "Hostages Square" in Tel Aviv, Bennett argued that Netanyahu's encouragement of mass draft avoidance undermines the military's ability to fight enemies.

Bennett cited reports from soldiers on the ground who claim that personnel shortages are leading to casualties. He stated that soldiers are being killed and wounded by drones due to a lack of observation and sniper support. He also described how prolonged operational rotations are exhausting soldiers, and that units are forced to abandon captured positions due to insufficient manpower, necessitating costly recaptures.

Bennett specifically warned that if the government does not enlist the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) population into the military in the upcoming term, the IDF will "simply collapse." He criticized Netanyahu, Interior Minister Moshe Gafni, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for ignoring the IDF Chief of Staff's warnings about a deficit of 20,000 combat soldiers.

Bennett's remarks came shortly after Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a warning that Israel's enemies might attempt to attack ahead of elections, vowing a strong response. Following Netanyahu's statement, Opposition leader Yair Lapid requested an urgent security briefing, and the two are scheduled to meet later Tuesday night.

Bennett also addressed the ongoing lack of investigation into the "failure of October 7th," stating that all those involved should be removed from their positions immediately. He characterized voting for the current coalition as a vote against IDF soldiers and reservists.