Coalition Talks: Haredi Draft Deferral, Arrest Halt Proposed
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Coalition talks are advancing a proposal for a one-year deferral of Haredi military conscription, including budget transfers and a halt to arrests, while a new law is drafted. Avigdor Lieberman is leading these sensitive negotiations, which are being reviewed for legal feasibility. Parliamentary developments include the upcoming election for Knesset Speaker, where Haredi abstention could signal progress. Lieberman maintains he has not compromised on the principle of conscription.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Coalition talks propose a one-year deferral of Haredi military conscription.
- Avigdor Lieberman is leading the sensitive negotiations with Haredi parties.
- The plan includes budget transfers and a halt to draft evasion arrests.
- A new conscription law is to be drafted within the one-year deferral period.
- Legal experts believe the High Court may allow the plan if time-bound.
Negotiations for a new coalition government are focusing on a one-year deferral of military conscription for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men. During this period, budgetary resources would be transferred to Haredi communities, arrests for draft evasion would cease, and work would begin on a new conscription law within the year. The talks are being led by Avigdor Lieberman, who was tasked by Gadi Eisenkot to pursue this avenue. Sources within the bloc indicate Lieberman is uniquely positioned to navigate these sensitive discussions.
The legal implications of this proposal are being examined, with an assessment that the High Court of Justice might permit a new government to seek a consensual law, provided the timeframe is limited. Simultaneously, options are being considered where civilian activities of Haredim could count towards service, alongside a potential commitment to a specific override clause, which faces internal opposition.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is currently maintaining a strategic silence, viewed positively by some. Yair Golan has begun advocating for compromise. If negotiations with the Haredim falter, Lieberman might ultimately consider a deal with Ra'am, an Arab party, as he reportedly still harbors ambitions for the premiership.
In parliamentary developments, the election of a new Knesset Speaker, Matan Kahana, is scheduled for Tuesday. A potential abstention by Haredi parties in this vote could signal progress in ongoing negotiations. Next week, the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee will convene, with plans to transform it into a "Foreign and Defense Audit." Lieberman intends to summon security chiefs to signal an end to political warfare, while sources close to Netanyahu are considering inviting Lieberman for a direct discussion.
Meanwhile, proposals for draft exemptions for yeshiva students and significant financial benefits for those who do serve are emerging from Haredi factions. Lieberman has stated he has not abandoned the principle of conscription and is not trying to become prime minister.
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