Yoaz Hendel Strongly Condemns Religious Zionism Party for Supporting Haredi Draft Evasion

On July 7, 2026, Yoaz Hendel, a retired lieutenant colonel and co-leader of the Trooper-Hendel party, sharply criticized the Religious Zionism party led by Bezalel Smotrich following their recent primaries. Hendel accused the party leaders of never having served in the military and condemned their political alliance with Haredi parties, which he said promotes draft evasion and anti-Zionist legislation, including laws that demean Torah study. He called their actions during wartime "a catastrophe and a disgrace," emphasizing that supporting such legislation undermines Israel's war efforts.

Hendel also reiterated his stance that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should resign, arguing that a new political formation like his own is necessary to break the current political deadlock after five inconclusive elections. He stated that his party would recommend a prime minister candidate capable of securing the most mandates.

Meanwhile, the Religious Zionism party concluded its primaries with 170 of 173 eligible voters participating. Orit Strook, the Minister of Settlement and National Missions, topped the list, followed by Simcha Rothman and Zvi Sukkot. The party chairman and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed confidence that the selected candidates, along with additional members soon to join, would lead the party to victory in the upcoming elections.