Arutz ShevaPolitics23:36

Incoming MK Compares Haredi Draft Status to Holocaust Restrictions

By ערוץ 7

Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba

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Incoming Knesset member Elyakim Stark has caused a public outcry by comparing the current situation of yeshiva students facing potential arrest over their military status to the restrictions experienced during the Holocaust. Stark, who is set to replace MK Yisrael Eichler, made the controversial remarks while discussing the difficulties yeshiva students encounter when trying to travel abroad for engagements. He stated that the current situation is "close to what it was during the Holocaust when they could not cross borders."

The story in 4 lines · by baba

Incoming MK Elyakim Stark compared yeshiva students' military status issues to Holocaust-era border restrictions.
Stark said the current situation for yeshiva students is "close to what it was during the Holocaust."
Stark is set to enter the Knesset in place of MK Yisrael Eichler.
The comments have generated significant controversy and criticism.

Incoming MK Compares Haredi Draft Status to Holocaust Restrictions — Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Stark, representing Yahadut HaTorah, addressed the difficulties faced by yeshiva students seeking to travel abroad for matchmaking purposes but fearing detention for being draft dodgers.

During his speech, Stark initially addressed Eichler, known for his sharp statements, saying he had resolved not to speak about the Holocaust in his early years because Eichler had already covered it sufficiently. However, Stark then proceeded to draw his own comparison to the Holocaust era.

"I am not dealing with Holocaust matters, but I find myself with no other definition. Our situation is close to what it was during the Holocaust when they could not cross borders. It reminds me of stories from our grandfathers," Stark stated. The comments have ignited a storm of criticism regarding the comparison made by the incoming lawmaker.