Dr. Avishai Ben Haim Criticizes Israeli Government's Handling of Haredi Draft Law Amid War
Dr. Avishai Ben Haim, author of "The Manifesto of Traditionalism," sharply criticized the Israeli government's decision to advance Haredi conscription laws during an ongoing war and just months before elections. Speaking at the Tekuma Movement's Right-Wing Conference in Tel Aviv and in an interview with Channel 7, Ben Haim called the move "irresponsible" and "suicidal," arguing that pushing such sensitive legislation four months before elections was incomprehensible and politically damaging to the right-wing bloc.
Ben Haim emphasized that the alliance between the right-wing and Haredi parties remains fundamental but condemned the government's timing and approach. He warned that the draft law debate is a political tool that ultimately benefits opposition parties like those led by Gadi Eizenkot, Naftali Bennett, and Avigdor Lieberman by potentially gaining them two Knesset seats. He dismissed claims that Haredi recruits could replace reserve soldiers as a "bluff," stating that even in the best case, integrating Haredim into the military is a long-term process.
Instead, Ben Haim advocated focusing efforts on strengthening and rewarding current reservists, highlighting the sacrifices they make in education and work. He called for significant increases in reservist benefits, describing this as the "great Zionist goal" to support those who defend the country now. Regarding political stability, he said there is no real threat of the right-Haredi alliance breaking, noting that without a 61-seat coalition including Haredim, the government would collapse.
Ben Haim also noted changes in Haredi leadership have weakened their political decision-making capacity. He concluded by urging a shift in national priorities away from sanctions and contentious legislation toward meaningful incentives for soldiers, which he believes will eventually encourage voluntary Haredi enlistment. He warned that continuing the current legislative push harms soldiers and effectively serves as a campaign for the opposition.
