Reservists Plead With Politicians Not to Betray Them on Draft Law
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Reservists are urging Israeli politicians not to compromise on the draft law, fearing that a coalition including ultra-Orthodox parties will exempt them from service. Several reservists shared personal accounts of career and life disruptions due to their service, pleading for politicians to uphold campaign promises. They warned that a failure to ensure broad military contribution poses an existential threat to Israel's future security and survival.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Reservists implore politicians not to betray them on the draft law, especially if forming a coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties.
- A reservist highlighted career risks and employer difficulties in accommodating extended military service.
- Another reservist warned of a future soldier shortage if the current draft situation persists.
- A doctor who enlisted due to soldier shortages called for prioritizing national security and a broad draft.
- Reservists emphasized that a lack of mutual responsibility in service poses an existential threat to Israel.
Reservists are expressing deep concern over the composition of Israel's next government and its potential impact on military service, particularly regarding the draft law. Many reservists feel betrayed by politicians who, after campaigning on issues affecting them, may form a coalition that exempts ultra-Orthodox men from mandatory service. Sergeant Major (Res.) N., a combat soldier, shared his struggles balancing reserve duty with his career, noting that employers are often unaware of or unable to accommodate extended absences for service. He urged politicians not to abandon reservists, emphasizing that if the ultra-Orthodox join the coalition, agreements must be reached ensuring all citizens contribute. "We trusted you during the entire campaign and voted for you. At the critical moment, do not betray us," he stated.
Sergeant Major (Res.) A., who has completed over 500 days of reserve duty, including during wartime, highlighted the necessity of shared burden for the nation's survival, drawing a parallel to the Yom Kippur War and the October 7th attacks. He lamented the lack of understanding from some segments of society regarding the urgent need for military service, stating, "Words are nice, but actions are needed." He called on politicians to look beyond the immediate term, warning of a future shortage of soldiers if the current situation persists.
Dr. Pnina Fogoda, a mother of five, described her decision to enlist as a doctor due to the severe shortage of soldiers, a sentiment echoed by many in her community. She noted that doctors she knows have served hundreds of days in reserve, with some not seeing home for extended periods. Fogoda urged the incoming government to prioritize national security and a broad draft, warning against concessions to parties that do not support Zionism and the concept of mutual responsibility. "We cannot continue to be extorted by non-Zionist parties," she asserted.
Sharon Brik-Dashen, whose husband and three daughters also serve in the military, joined the call for prioritizing national security. She criticized the ultra-Orthodox community's perceived disregard for security needs and mutual responsibility, despite tens of thousands of Israelis of all ages returning to service. Brik-Dashen appealed directly to Izencot, urging him to uphold his promises and place the issue of a comprehensive draft above all political considerations, framing it as an existential threat to Israel.
Mentioned
