Netanyahu Pledges to Advance Draft Exemption Law, Criticizes Arrests of Haredi Draft Dodgers

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue advancing legislation for draft exemptions for the Haredi community in the next term, though he stopped short of committing to its passage before the formation of a new government. In an interview with Kol Barama radio, Netanyahu also voiced his opposition to the arrest of Haredi draft dodgers, stating, "This is unacceptable." He expressed concern over the possibility of Haredi parties aligning with Gadi Eisenkot, calling the alternative "terrible."

Netanyahu addressed criticism from rabbis, acknowledging their frustration and stating that the draft exemption law was close to passing, needing only one more vote. He believes the law will regulate the relationship between Haredi and secular Israelis for generations, respecting the world of Torah while ensuring a renewed burden-sharing. However, when pressed on whether the law would be enacted before the next government is sworn in, he was non-committal, citing the need for goodwill and cooperation.

Regarding the arrest of Haredi draft dodgers, Netanyahu reiterated his stance that it is unacceptable and aims to preserve the world of Torah, which he believes has preserved the Jewish people. He suggested these arrests are a deliberate attempt to harm the process of Haredi conscription without coercion. Nevertheless, he supported the conscription of Haredim who are not engaged in Torah study, stating, "Whoever does not study should go and be drafted."

On the potential for Haredi parties to join forces with Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu expressed doubt, hoping such a phenomenon would be marginal. He emphasized the close ties between the Haredi and religious Zionist public, their shared heritage, and common destiny, warning that the alternative is dire.

In response to Netanyahu's remarks, opposition leaders sharply criticized him, accusing him of trading draft exemptions for political support. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called it a "deal for rule" and claimed Netanyahu is dismantling the IDF. Gadi Eisenkot framed the upcoming election as a choice between Netanyahu's "draft evasion government" and his own "Zionist enlistment government." Avigdor Lieberman criticized Netanyahu's opposition to draft dodger arrests, calling him a hostage to draft evaders. Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid denounced the move as a "disgusting deal" that weakens the IDF and compromises security.