Haredi MK Defends Stance on IDF Draft, Blames Opposition

Member of Knesset Yaakov Asher, chairman of the United Torah Judaism party, responded to criticism from a senior IDF official regarding the haredi parties' demand for a draft exemption law as a condition for joining the government. Asher stated, "Don't lecture me and don't tell me what to say to people." He asserted that political hypocrisy surrounding the draft issue will end after the elections.

Asher's remarks come amidst internal party discussions and a recent leadership change within Degel HaTorah, a faction of United Torah Judaism. Rabbi Dov Lando, a prominent Lithuanian leader, had informed MKs Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev that Gafni would not continue as party leader in the Knesset, to be replaced by Asher. This move was reportedly linked to disagreements over the party's political direction and its relationship with the government, particularly concerning the draft law.

Addressing the IDF's need for thousands of soldiers, Asher acknowledged the shortage but pointed to broader national system deficiencies, including in healthcare. He explained that for two years, under the guidance of senior rabbis, his party worked on legislation to regulate the status of yeshiva students and related matters. Asher blamed the opposition and certain media outlets for obstructing this legislation, claiming they profit from the societal division and do not desire solutions. He suggested that had the law passed a year and a half ago, the number of draftees would be different.

Asher criticized the public pronouncements of some officials, contrasting them with closed-door discussions. He stated he does not call on individuals to enlist but urges the government and IDF to address the issue constructively. He mentioned a report by Shaked that did not include sanctions or arrests, implying that the military's approach in public differs from internal deliberations. Asher concluded by reiterating that he will not be told what to say to his constituents.