MK Hili Tropper Rejects Coalition with Netanyahu and Criticizes Aryeh Deri's Support for Draft Dodgers
MK Hili Tropper, leader of the new party "Zionist Home - Reservists," spoke extensively in a podcast hosted by Barak Seri and Yehuda Schlesinger about his political stance and future plans. Tropper sharply criticized Shas chairman Aryeh Deri for proudly acknowledging his draft-dodging grandchildren, calling it "not a Zionist act." He condemned Deri for aligning with ultra-Orthodox leadership during the recent conflict and supporting legislation exempting draft dodgers from arrest, describing it as siding with those avoiding military service.
Regarding the possibility of supporting or completing a coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Tropper firmly stated he would not help Netanyahu reach the 61-seat majority. He argued that Netanyahu's coalition includes non-Zionist elements that promote draft evasion, and that the Likud has chosen to side with draft dodgers. Tropper emphasized that anyone who chose to remain passive during Israel's most difficult times, while soldiers were fighting, cannot be part of government formation.
Tropper also confirmed receiving offers from former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett before launching his independent party but chose to establish "Zionist Home" with reservists instead. He dismissed concerns about his party's small size, asserting that a party with four seats can be more influential than a larger one.
He acknowledged differences with his list partner Yoaz Hendel on sanctions against draft dodgers, rejecting Hendel's call to revoke voting rights from those who do not serve, calling voting a fundamental democratic right. Tropper expressed full trust in Hendel's commitment and military service.
On cooperation with left-wing parties and demands from Yair Golan regarding religious Zionist institutions, Tropper was clear he would not join a government that closes the Aliyah preparatory program. Ahead of Tisha B'Av, he reflected on internal divisions exposed by the October 7 attacks, warning that enemies perceive Israel as internally fractured and stressing the need for national unity during the election period.
