Sharp Incitement Against IDF Chief Sparks Political Condemnations and Coalition Silence

A rally held on June 29 in Bnei Brak against the arrest of IDF draft evaders featured severe incitement against Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. The event, attended by four Shas party Knesset members, included harsh statements such as those by Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi, who cursed Zamir and accused the military of promoting serious Torah violations. Additionally, chants of "traitor" were directed at Shas leader Aryeh Deri.

The political response was mixed. Defense Minister Israel Katz promptly condemned the incitement, emphasizing the importance of respecting the military leadership despite public disagreements. President Isaac Herzog also denounced the offensive language used against Zamir, calling for responsible and respectful public discourse. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the ultra-Orthodox community and government ministers for their silence, accusing them of enabling incitement and failing to protect the Chief of Staff.

Israel Beytenu chairman Avigdor Lieberman labeled the incitement a national disgrace and blamed the current government for politically supporting draft evaders to maintain power, warning of the consequences for the IDF and Israeli society. He called on ultra-Orthodox party leaders, including Aryeh Deri, to issue strong condemnations. Notably, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and many coalition members, including the Shas MKs present at the rally, remained silent on the matter.

The incident highlights deep tensions within Israeli society over military service and the political divisions surrounding enforcement against draft evasion. The lack of unified condemnation from the ruling coalition contrasts with the swift denunciations from opposition and state leaders, underscoring ongoing challenges in balancing political interests and national security responsibilities.