Shas and Degel HaTorah Leaders Praise Knesset Law Exempting Haredi Draft Evaders

Aryeh Deri, chairman of the Shas party, responded to the Knesset's approval of a law exempting Haredi draft evaders from arrest, declaring that the parliament has sent a clear message to the dismissed Attorney General to end the persecution and hatred against Torah scholars. Deri emphasized that it is unthinkable that in the Jewish state, yeshiva students, regarded as the Levite tribe of Israel, would be treated as criminals, and said this law begins to correct that injustice.

Moshe Gafni, chairman of Degel HaTorah, also praised the decision, calling it an important step in protecting the world of Torah study and its students. He highlighted the recognition of the significance of Torah learning for the people of Israel and the state itself. The law marks a significant shift in policy regarding the treatment of Haredi draft evaders and reflects political support for the religious community's exemption from military service.

The legislation was passed recently in the Knesset amid ongoing debates about the military draft and exemptions for Haredi yeshiva students. The law's approval signals a political stance against previous legal actions targeting draft evaders within the Haredi community, aiming to reduce tensions and affirm the status of Torah study in Israeli society.