Bennett Slams Deri Over Haredi Draft Law: 'He Has No God'
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett harshly criticized Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri on Monday, accusing him of lacking religious conviction and desecrating God's name over the Haredi draft law. Bennett argued Deri's stance against military service for Haredi men contradicts Jewish law and the need to defend Israel. The exchange highlights the ongoing national debate over Haredi enlistment, with Bennett promoting his "serving camp" concept and Deri emphasizing Torah study.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Naftali Bennett accused Aryeh Deri of lacking religious conviction regarding the Haredi draft law.
- Bennett stated Deri's stance on Haredi military exemptions constitutes a "desecration of God's name."
- The criticism occurred during a television interview on the "Kikar HaShabbat" program.
- Bennett advocates for a "serving camp" concept that includes all segments of Israeli society.
- The debate centers on proposed legislation to regulate Haredi yeshiva students' draft status.
- Deri emphasizes Torah study's importance and opposes sanctions against non-enlisting yeshiva students.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett fiercely criticized Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri during a television interview on Monday, accusing him of lacking religious conviction regarding the Haredi draft law. Bennett stated that Deri "has no God" and that his stance on exempting Haredi men from military service is not in line with Jewish tradition, which mandates fighting to defend the land of Israel. Bennett argued that Deri's position constitutes a "desecration of God's name" and represents a new religion, not Judaism.
The heated exchange occurred during an appearance by Bennett on the "Kikar HaShabbat" program with host Yishai Cohen. Cohen attempted to moderate the discussion, expressing disapproval of personal attacks and questioning Bennett's right to judge Deri's religiosity. However, Bennett doubled down, asserting that Deri does not uphold the commandment of defending Israel and is therefore not observing Jewish law.
Bennett's remarks come amid ongoing controversy surrounding the coalition's efforts to legislate the status of Haredi yeshiva students concerning IDF enlistment. Opponents have dubbed the proposed law the "Draft Evasion Law," arguing it perpetuates broad exemptions for the Haredi community while the army faces manpower shortages following the Swords of Iron War.
Bennett has made the draft issue a central theme of his political platform, advocating for a "serving camp" that includes religious, secular, and traditional Israelis sharing the burden of national security and economy. He criticizes extensive draft exemptions while career soldiers and reservists serve extended periods. Bennett contends there is no contradiction between Torah study and military service, citing the Religious Zionist community as an example of successful integration.
In contrast, Deri emphasizes the importance of Torah study for national protection and opposes criminal or economic sanctions against yeshiva students who do not enlist, reflecting the Haredi community's resistance to compulsory service. Criticism of the draft law's handling also exists within the coalition, with some members demanding a more substantial solution to Haredi enlistment given the IDF's needs.
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