Barak Prioritizes Ousting Netanyahu Over Draft Law Compromise
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Former Israeli official Ehud Barak declared that ousting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the "change bloc's" top priority, even over compromising on the Haredi draft law. He proposed a shorter national service for Haredi men not enlisting and increased soldier benefits. Barak also insisted on core curriculum integration and balanced tax participation. President Isaac Herzog will begin coalition consultations on Wednesday.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ehud Barak says removing Netanyahu is the "change bloc's" main promise, overriding draft law compromise.
- Barak proposes shorter national service for Haredi men not enlisting, plus better soldier benefits.
- The "change bloc" must insist on core curriculum in Haredi schools, Barak stated.
- President Herzog begins coalition consultations Wednesday, starting with smaller parties.
- Avigdor Lieberman criticized Gadi Eisenkot's campaign management.
Former Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ehud Barak stated on Monday that the "change bloc" is prepared to compromise on the contentious draft law issue to form a government led by Gadi Eisenkot. Barak emphasized that the bloc's primary commitment is to remove Benjamin Netanyahu from power, suggesting any other promise should be secondary. This statement comes amid a political stalemate following the recent elections, where the "change bloc" struggles to secure the necessary 61 mandates without the support of Haredi or Arab parties.
Barak proposed an alternative approach to the Haredi draft law, acknowledging the military's limited capacity to absorb all Haredi men. He suggested a shorter national civil service option for those who choose not to enlist, followed by entry into civilian life. Barak also stressed the need for significantly increased financial benefits for soldiers serving in the IDF, while clarifying that this does not aim to obstruct Torah study. He believes Eisenkot could craft a draft law that, while not fully embraced by Haredi parties, would be considered reasonable.
However, Barak insisted that the "change bloc" must not compromise on civil matters. These include integrating core curriculum studies into Haredi educational institutions, encouraging employment within the Haredi community, and ensuring balanced participation in the tax system.
Barak's remarks coincide with ongoing discussions within the "change bloc" regarding government formation strategies. Avigdor Lieberman, Chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, has met with figures from both political blocs and criticized Eisenkot's campaign management. Meanwhile, President Isaac Herzog is set to begin consultations with Knesset factions on Wednesday, unusually starting with smaller parties to explore all available options for forming a government.
Mentioned
