Yisrael Candidate Slams Haredi Leader's Remarks on IDF Service

Shira Shapira, mother of Aner Shapira who was killed on October 7th and a candidate for the Knesset on the 'Yisrael' party list, expressed strong criticism regarding recent statements by Rabbi Dov Lando, a leader of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community. Lando had reportedly spoken against the military service of Religious Zionists. Shapira stated that such remarks are not just angering but "shocking," especially given that Religious Zionist soldiers are serving extensively in the ongoing war, with many on extended reserve duty. She accused Lando, as a senior partner in the coalition, of making statements that imply Religious Zionists are "robbing the country" and "hate Torah."

Shapira also directed criticism at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other coalition leaders, questioning why they have not publicly condemned Lando's remarks. She argued that while condemning such statements is minimal, it is insufficient without concrete legislative action to address the issue of military service exemptions. She pointed to recent legislation that she believes supports draft dodgers, contrasting it with the heavy burden carried by Religious Zionist soldiers.

Discussing future coalition partnerships for the 'Yisrael' party, led by Gadi Eisenkot, Shapira outlined four core principles: a Jewish, democratic, and liberal state based on the Declaration of Independence; universal service (military, civilian, or national); and the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization to be destroyed. She clarified that this stance would exclude parties like Ra'am, while potentially including parties like the Democrats, led by Yair Golan, due to their alignment with these principles, particularly regarding equality in service.

Shapira vehemently rejected claims made by Knesset Member Moshe Saada that Religious Zionists within the 'Yisrael' party serve as a "fig leaf" with no real influence. She asserted her own religious identity and the commitment of Religious Zionism to taking responsibility for all of Israeli society, citing her family's history in the movement. She highlighted the party's commitment to representation, noting that five religious individuals are in the top ten list positions and nine in the top twenty.

Regarding settlement and sovereignty, Shapira stated support for settlement within legal boundaries that bolster Israel's security, extending beyond Judea and Samaria to the northern and southern borders. She emphasized that Gadi Eisenkot has never advocated for a Palestinian state and has committed to not sitting with parties that do not recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Finally, Shapira addressed the issue of military conscription, condemning "a culture of lies" and "a propaganda machine" that generates falsehoods. She urged transparency and a focus on facts rather than rumors. When asked about potential ministerial portfolios, she stated she is not seeking specific roles but aims to contribute to social cohesion and serve the youth of Israel, expressing confidence in the younger generation's resilience and commitment.