Former IDF Chief Admits Draft Orders Won't Lead to Haredi Conscription

The Israeli Military Police have begun arresting draft dodging Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) individuals about a year after conscription orders were issued to all yeshiva students, following the Attorney General's directive. However, it has emerged that the IDF itself opposed this move. During a recent briefing, Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Herzl Levy acknowledged the measure would not be effective. Katz recounted a conversation with Levy, in which Levy confirmed that while the army could issue orders and absorb recruits, actual enlistment would not occur without the consent of Haredi rabbis, stating, "Without the rabbis' approval, the Haredim will not enlist, it must be consensual, that is the reality."

This admission contrasts sharply with the army's current enforcement actions, described as "like an elephant in a china shop." Katz also questioned the Military Police officers present whether the arrests and sanctions would result in increased enlistment; the room fell silent before Katz concluded, "No, this will not lead to enlistment." The IDF Spokesperson's Unit has not responded to requests for comment on this matter.