Shas Leader Aryeh Deri Launches Sharp Attack on IDF Chief Amid Recruitment Law Dispute

As Israel approaches elections, Shas chairman Aryeh Deri has launched an unprecedented attack on IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi, accusing him of political interference. Deri criticized Kochavi for sending a warning letter to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee opposing a law exempting draft dodgers from arrest. The law, which Deri initiated, passed its final readings despite the chief's objections. Deri claimed Kochavi "lost it" and accused him of trying to aid the left-wing bloc during the election period, calling it a dangerous precedent that harms the military.

In an interview with Yishai Cohen on Kikar HaShabbat, Deri said Kochavi focused more on defending his reputation than on the recruitment issue, noting that arrests would not increase enlistment. He also criticized the chief for remaining silent while the defense minister and prime minister supported the law.

The attack drew swift responses from political figures. Gadi Eizenkot, head of the Yisrael! party, called Deri's remarks brazen and disconnected, emphasizing that military service is not a political matter but a national security issue. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also condemned Deri on X (formerly Twitter), accusing him of encouraging mass draft evasion and undermining the IDF. Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, labeled Deri's criticism as shameless, highlighting Deri's role in opposing enlistment from his own community while others serve and fight.

Knesset member Avichai Boaron from Likud joined the criticism, stating that Kochavi's conduct was inappropriate and that Defense Minister Israel Katz should dismiss him. Katz has not publicly responded to the coalition's attacks on the IDF chief. Meanwhile, opposition leader Yair Golan mocked Deri on social media, referencing a past election ad where Deri appeared emotional.

This controversy underscores deep tensions within Israel's political and military leadership over the contentious issue of military recruitment exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community, with the upcoming elections intensifying the debate.