Minister Ofir Sofer Announces Retirement From Politics Amid Dispute Over Haredi Draft

Minister Ofir Sofer has declared he will not run in the upcoming Knesset elections, citing disagreements with Religious Zionist Party leader Bezalel Smotrich regarding the conscription of Haredi Jews. In his resignation letter, Sofer stated, "I have decided not to submit my candidacy for the next Knesset. I will continue to serve diligently until the end of my current term." He expressed gratitude to Smotrich and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and urged the Israeli public to foster unity. Sofer emphasized the importance of a collective spirit, writing, "It is the duty of Israeli citizens to demand a discourse of unity, solidarity, and genuine partnership in the sacred and critical mission of defending the state's security."