Rabbi Yair Paran Criticizes Basic Law on Torah Study, Calls for Inclusive Haredi Military Service

Rabbi Yair Paran, head of the middle school division at Shacharit High School in Jerusalem and great-grandson of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, spoke to Channel 7 about the controversy surrounding the Basic Law on Torah Study and the public debate on Haredi conscription. Paran argued that while Torah study is a fundamental value in Israel, the law itself demeans the Torah and divides the nation by legally entrenching exemptions and draft evasion. He emphasized that Israel does not persecute Torah scholars but rather those who evade military service illegally.

Paran criticized the government, accusing it of pushing the law for political gain ahead of elections, sacrificing national values for another political term. He stressed that Haredi conscription should respect their lifestyle and identity, rejecting forced assimilation. He envisions a reality where Haredi men can enter and leave the army maintaining their religious identity, and suggested that separate service frameworks might be necessary to facilitate significant Haredi enlistment.

Addressing the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, Paran noted that while security officials took responsibility for failures, political leaders did not, causing a deep trust crisis between the public and government. On conscription, he insisted that mandatory service laws must apply equally to all citizens, with gradual implementation starting with non-students and economic sanctions for draft evaders, such as withholding state benefits. However, he opposed revoking voting rights for those who avoid service, calling it an extreme measure.

Regarding his family, Paran acknowledged differing opinions but maintained close relationships despite disagreements. He said his guiding principle, inherited from Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, is concern for the Jewish people and Torah world rather than preserving specific social frameworks. When asked about entering politics, Paran said he prefers to serve where he can best contribute to the nation and fulfill divine will, without committing to a political career.