MK Dan Illouz to Quit Likud Over Controversial Military Exemption Law

Amid ongoing disagreements within the coalition over the wording of the military exemption law, MK Dan Illouz plans to announce his departure from the Likud party later this week. Illouz has been a prominent voice opposing the legislation from within the coalition, arguing that it will legitimize widespread avoidance of military service among many in the ultra-Orthodox community.

The Basic Law on Torah Study, which grants Torah students rights equivalent to those serving in the military, was approved in a preliminary Knesset vote earlier this month. The bill passed with 63 votes in favor and 53 against. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu participated in the vote after ultra-Orthodox parties demanded the law pass with a minimum majority of 61 members rather than a simple majority.

The law has sparked significant controversy, with critics warning it institutionalizes exemptions for many who avoid army service. In related developments, the Israel Tax Authority is set to initiate actions against yeshivas that allegedly facilitate draft evasion.