Netanyahu Disappears Amid Controversial Anti-IDF Legislation Debate in Knesset

During a recent Knesset session on the controversial law concerning draft evasion, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot criticized the involvement of ultra-Orthodox lawmakers who have direct conflicts of interest, as some have grandchildren who are draft evaders benefiting from the legislation. Despite these conflicts, these lawmakers led and voted for the bill, which critics say undermines the IDF, equality, and public trust.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who arrived by military helicopter to oversee the vote, was notably absent at the moment of the final decision. His aides claimed he received an urgent "new diplomatic phone call," leaving Defense Minister Israel Katz alone to face the backlash. Netanyahu’s disappearance was seen as a strategic move to avoid being recorded supporting the law, which many view as anti-Zionist and damaging to the state’s security and social fabric.

The article highlights Netanyahu’s historical pattern of political maneuvering, referencing his past support for the disengagement plan despite public opposition and his current prioritization of coalition unity over national interests. It also points to his personal conflict of interest, as he reportedly has ultra-Orthodox grandchildren who could benefit from the draft evasion law.

The piece further condemns Aryeh Deri, leader of the Shas party, for attacking IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, accusing him of undermining the military while Deri himself is implicated in corruption scandals and nepotism. Eizenkot, who lost his son and relatives in recent conflicts, has been disparaged by Netanyahu’s supporters with baseless accusations, illustrating the toxic political environment.

Finally, the article criticizes the head of Shin Bet, David Zini, for allegedly compromising the agency’s independence to satisfy Netanyahu’s security demands, suggesting the Netanyahu family requires constant surveillance rather than protection. The overall tone portrays a government prioritizing political survival over the country’s security and ethical standards as Israel approaches the 2026 elections.