Haredi MK Uri Maklev Condemns Religious Zionism’s Military Service Stance Amid Rising Sectarian Tensions

Haredi political factions in Israel are uniting in opposition to Religious Zionist views on military service, intensifying a longstanding dispute between the sectors. On a recent visit to a summer camp for yeshiva students during the "bein hazmanim" break, MK Uri Maklev, chairman of the United Torah Judaism faction, strongly criticized claims that Torah study could be combined with army service. Maklev emphasized that Torah study is a fundamental right and the core of their existence, stating, "The fight is over Torah study without interruption. This is the battle." He condemned Religious Zionist politicians who advocate for combining Torah study with other activities, saying, "This will not be forgiven. We are dealing with great damage."

Maklev praised the perseverance of yeshiva students, asserting that the Torah world is thriving and growing thanks to their dedication. He also harshly criticized the Israeli Supreme Court for striking down laws passed by the Knesset, accusing it of undermining its own legitimacy and operating as a "judicial dictatorship." He declared, "We do not work for the Supreme Court. Every law annulment only weakens their legitimacy."

The remarks sparked sharp responses from Religious Zionist leaders. Yossi Brodny, mayor of Givat Shmuel and head of the Religious Zionist faction within Yisrael Beiteinu, rejected Maklev’s framing of combining Torah and military service as a "sin," affirming their commitment to both Torah study and defending Israel. MK Michal Waldiger apologized to Maklev for Religious Zionism showing that it is possible to both study Torah and serve the nation.

Tensions escalated after Rabbi Dov Lando, a Lithuanian Haredi leader, harshly condemned Religious Zionist soldiers, accusing them of aiding murder by serving in the army. In response, Religious Zionist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich acknowledged the sensitivity but defended the sector’s high enlistment and reserve service rates, framing military service as a vital mitzvah and expression of responsibility for Israel.

This dispute unfolds amid ongoing legal battles over military service laws, including the Supreme Court’s recent suspension of a law preventing the arrest of draft dodgers, with petitions from parties including Yesh Atid and Yisrael Beiteinu. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has urged the court to permanently annul the law, calling it a "flawed and harmful legislative arrangement."