New Haredi Leader Yaakov Asher Prioritizes Draft Exemption Law
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
He aims to legislate a definition for "Torah is his craft" to resolve the issue, rejecting the notion that economic sanctions or arrests are effective solutions for the Haredi community. Asher also emphasized that the Haredi community's stance stems from faith and called for societal acceptance, asserting that his party will only join a government that settles the draft law.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Asher seeks to legislate a definition for "Torah is his craft" to address military conscription.
- He believes economic sanctions and arrests are ineffective and counterproductive for the Haredi community.
- Asher stated that the Haredi community's position is rooted in faith, not parasitism.
- Asher called for societal acceptance of the Haredi population, emphasizing their love for Israel.
Asher clarified that his goal is not a blanket exemption but rather to define who qualifies under the "Torah is his craft" clause, a definition he wants to legislate. He acknowledged the IDF's projected shortage of 17,000 soldiers by January 2027, as stated by Brigadier General Shai Teib to the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, but argued that placing the sole burden on the Haredi community is a fundamental mistake. He criticized opposition tactics of filibustering, suggesting that a law could have been passed and tested already.
Addressing concerns from reservists and bereaved families, Asher expressed understanding for their difficulty in comprehending the Haredi stance. However, he asserted that economic sanctions would be ineffective against the deeply religious and faith-based Haredi community, who he believes would endure hardship to remain under the guidance of their rabbis. He also dismissed the idea that recent draft inductions are a result of sanctions, attributing them to the pressure of media attention and stating that arrests only lead to further protests.
Asher emphasized that the October 7th attacks have significantly impacted Israeli society's perception of the Haredi community, but urged against viewing them as parasites, stressing their actions stem from faith.
He dismissed comments by former minister Naftali Bennett regarding financial penalties for draft dodgers as shameful, especially coming from someone who was once a strong right-wing figure. Asher also defended Rabbi Landau against interpretations of his controversial remarks, explaining they were specific halachic discussions, not public declarations. He expressed concern about internal Haredi dissent and the rise of parties representing working Haredim, viewing them as a distraction that benefits those who wish them ill.
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