MK Goldknopf Advises Ultra-Orthodox Youth to Seek Military Exemption Through Known Contacts

On Wednesday, United Torah Judaism MK Yitzhak Goldknopf advised a young ultra-Orthodox man to obtain an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) exemption through acquaintances who specialize in that process. When asked whether he should wait for legislation regulating exemptions, Goldknopf responded that his party is not part of the current government and is uncertain about future coalitions after the elections. United Torah Judaism later clarified that Goldknopf believed the young man had cognitive difficulties and effectively recommended pursuing a medical exemption, denying any suggestion that he endorsed fraudulent claims.

Separately, senior government officials decided to abandon a bill that would cancel the detention of draft dodgers. Following a legislative blitz at the end of the Knesset session, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, Shas chairman Aryeh Deri, and Government Secretary Yossi Fuchs met to strategize responses to Supreme Court petitions against the bill. The Supreme Court issued an interim injunction freezing the law, and the government chose not to participate in the hearing. Fuchs emphasized the state's need for ultra-Orthodox recruits rather than detainees.

The Knesset's legal advisor recently submitted a response to the petition, highlighting procedural flaws in the bill’s passage and constitutional concerns. The advisor noted the legislation did not meet the high standards required given the sensitive context, especially considering IDF recruitment needs following the events of October 7. Additionally, the Supreme Court suspended changes to the Communications Law, while the Basic Law on Torah Study was approved by the Knesset committee.