Ultra-Orthodox Demand Draft Exemption Law and Override Clause

Ultra-Orthodox parties, specifically the Hasidic faction of Agudat Yisrael, are reportedly demanding a personal commitment from 48 lawmakers in the "change bloc" to legislate a law exempting yeshiva students from military service. They also seek an "override clause" that would allow the Knesset to re-pass legislation that is struck down by the High Court of Justice. A document detailing these demands was revealed, suggesting discussions with the Attorney General, though her principles remain unclear. Despite Avigdor Lieberman lifting his veto on ultra-Orthodox parties joining a government, significant gaps appear to persist.

The demands emerged from a meeting of rabbis from Agudat Yisrael, including representatives from Gur and Vizhnitz Hasidic dynasties, held at the home of the Slonim Rebbe's son. The core demand is to postpone military service for all Torah scholars and to secure signed commitments from the "change bloc" MKs to enact the exemption law. The document also indicates alleged indirect or direct communication with Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara regarding the broad draft exemption law, with the rabbis reportedly seeking her prior approval for an override clause. They apparently view her as a "small difficulty" but note she "leaves unclear on which principles the coordination applies, and what reservations remain, apparently due to her lack of understanding."

Further demands include agreeing on general principles while deferring specifics, and clarifying who can change the arrangement and under what conditions. The ultra-Orthodox also prefer a specific override clause over a general one or a new Basic Law if the legislation is disqualified by the High Court. This comes after Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, announced he was dropping his long-standing veto on ultra-Orthodox parties, stating a willingness to compromise on the draft law, a significant election promise.

Meanwhile, Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Yamina party, submitted a bill on the first day of the Knesset's term that prioritizes those who serve in the military over draft dodgers, asserting his principles are clear and his intention is to place service members at the top of the national priority list.