Israel Delays Decision on Denying Benefits to Draft Dodgers
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
The Israeli government is delaying a decision on revoking tax and public transport benefits for Haredi men evading military service, despite a High Court order. Professional assessments found no obstacles to removing public transport subsidies, but ministers have not acted. The government cites the lack of an Interior Minister for delaying arnona benefit changes, though the Prime Minister holds those powers. The number of draft dodgers has risen sharply to 110,000, with 80% estimated to be from the Haredi community.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel's government is delaying the removal of tax and public transport benefits from draft dodgers.
- The High Court ordered a review of these benefits in April, but no decision has been made.
- Professional assessments found no obstacles to revoking public transport subsidies.
- The government cites the absence of an Interior Minister for delays in revoking arnona benefits.
- The number of draft dodgers has increased to 110,000, with 80% from the Haredi community.
The Israeli government has been delaying for months a decision on revoking municipal tax (arnona) and public transportation benefits for Haredi men who evade military service. This delay persists despite a High Court of Justice order from April mandating a review of the issue and professional assessments indicating no professional obstacles to removing public transport subsidies. The government's inaction concerns significant benefits, potentially worth hundreds of shekels monthly per individual and family. The High Court's directive in April to examine the possibility of revoking these benefits has not led to a practical decision.
Professional officials in the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Finance have informed Ministers Miri Regev and Bezalel Smotrich that there are no professional impediments to revoking public transport benefits. However, according to reports, no steps have been taken to advance this measure despite repeated inquiries.
Regarding arnona benefits, the government claims the process is stalled due to the absence of a permanent Interior Minister. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assumed the Interior Ministry's powers, he has not advanced a decision on the matter. The Director-General of the Interior Ministry, lacking the authority to decide independently, has raised difficulties regarding the proposed change.
This situation arises amidst a sharp increase in the number of individuals evading military service, with the total reaching approximately 110,000, up from about 75,000 in early 2026. The military estimates that around 80% of those currently classified as draft dodgers belong to the Haredi community. This rise is partly attributed to the induction of tens of thousands of additional conscription orders, and the number is expected to continue growing.
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