MK Uri Maklev Strongly Criticizes Religious Zionism Over Torah and Military Service

On Monday, MK Uri Maklev of the Degel HaTorah party sharply criticized the Religious Zionist sector for promoting the idea that one can both study Torah and serve in the military. Speaking to a large audience of students, Maklev condemned the notion that Torah study can be combined with other activities, calling it an unforgivable damage to the Torah world. He emphasized that Torah study is the community's essential right and warned against mixing it with other pursuits. Maklev specifically targeted the Religious Zionists for introducing this concept, stating, "They said, 'We learn Torah, but it is also possible to do so alongside military service.' This is a great harm we are dealing with." His remarks highlight ongoing tensions within the religious community over the identity and priorities of Torah study and service.