Thousands March in Jerusalem Against IDF Service

Thousands of ultra-Orthodox individuals participated in a large procession in Jerusalem on Tuesday evening to honor draft dodgers recently released from military prison. The march, which took place in ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods, featured singing, music, and dancing as the released individuals were celebrated. Participants carried signs denouncing service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), with slogans such as "Free the hostages from prison 10 who will never serve in the enemy's army" and "We will die rather than enlist." The event included a reception for those released from incarceration, with plans to distribute funds to individuals who refused to enlist. Reports indicate approximately 50 draft dodgers attended, out of about 100 invited. The procession, accompanied by music and a flatbed truck, led to road closures in the area.

The event drew sharp criticism from opposition politicians. Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, stated, "In Jerusalem, a welcome parade is being held for 'released' draft dodgers, as if they were just released after three years of fighting in Gaza. These are Netanyahu's partners. Without the evaders, Bibi has no government." Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yishai, wrote, "The upcoming elections are between a government of evasion and a Zionist enlistment government. The State of Israel cannot afford another term of a government of evasion." Other Knesset members also condemned the event. Naama Lazimi highlighted the signs, noting, "The signs of Netanyahu's partners in the evaders' parade: 'The IDF is the enemy's army.'" MK Yulia Malinovsky stated, "From the perspective of the evaders, we are all, the serving public, the enemy's army. My son who is serving is an enemy, my neighbor's daughter, your children, everyone who wears a uniform and guards the State of Israel and their families, are all enemies." Chili Tropper commented, "It's hard to grasp how far ingratitude goes."