Ultra-Orthodox Leader Warns of National Division Over Conscription Dispute
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Asher also accused Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of crossing a red line with his criticism of the Haredi public and their leaders. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions over draft exemptions for yeshiva students.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Asher criticized the portrayal of the Haredi community as a "fifth column" and "parasites."
- He accused Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of crossing a red line with his criticism of Haredi leaders.
- Asher contrasted the media's acceptance of Arab politicians' reasons for not serving in the army with criticism of Haredim.
- The remarks were made amidst ongoing tensions over draft exemptions for yeshiva students.
- Asher also criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett for his stance on the Haredi community.
Responding to a previous statement by Rabbi Dov Lando suggesting it would be preferable for Haredim to live under Arab rule, Asher clarified that the Haredi perspective is rooted in religious observance and the belief that Torah study is essential for the survival of the Jewish people. He criticized the portrayal of the Haredi community as a "fifth column" and contrasted it with the media's acceptance of Arab politicians' reasons for not serving in the military, which he attributed to nationalism.
Asher further asserted that by labeling a significant portion of the Israeli population as "parasites" and "draft dodgers," the state risks losing its Jewish majority and fracturing the nation. He specifically addressed criticism from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, stating that Smotrich crossed a red line by speaking about the Haredi public and their leaders in a derogatory manner. Asher accused Smotrich of lacking the resolve to fight for Haredi interests when in coalition, despite his party's own agenda.
The chairman also criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, noting a shift from his past support for Torah study to current attacks on the Haredi community. Asher urged politicians to avoid actions that would further divide the nation, emphasizing that the country's foundation relies on its Jewish majority.
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