Yuli Edelstein Calls for Zionist Government Excluding Arab Parties and Balanced Draft Law Debate

In a recent podcast interview with Channel 7, former Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein urged avoiding populism in discussions about Israel's military draft law. He emphasized the need to balance national security requirements with preserving the Torah study world, advocating for drafting those not studying in yeshivas while protecting genuine religious institutions. Edelstein expressed concern over election rhetoric pushing for immediate universal conscription or denying voting rights to those who do not serve, calling such approaches unrealistic and unhelpful.

Edelstein stressed that any draft law must be reasonable and proportional, maintaining the status of authentic Torah study frameworks. He noted that tens of thousands currently not enlisted should be drafted into the Israel Defense Forces. Regarding post-election government formation, Edelstein said it is possible to establish a broad Zionist coalition but explicitly excluded Arab parties from participation. He distinguished between the legitimacy of Arab parties' election to the Knesset and their suitability as coalition partners, citing a lack of shared vision for Israel's future and disagreement on strengthening the IDF through a genuine draft law.

Edelstein concluded that coalition partners must share a common denominator, which he does not see with the Arab parties, emphasizing the importance of a Zionist government composed solely of Zionist parties. The interview was conducted by Uzi Baruch and is available on Spotify.