Netanyahu Vows Full Military Draft Law After Temporary Arrest Freeze Fails

In a closed-door meeting on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the temporary law freezing arrests of draft dodgers in the ultra-Orthodox community, acknowledging that the measure failed to reduce tensions or increase enlistment. Netanyahu stated that the temporary arrest freeze was intended to lower unrest and boost recruitment among Haredim, but admitted, "In practice, it did not succeed, and therefore there will be no such law in the next government." He pledged that after the upcoming elections, a broad national government will be formed to immediately pass a comprehensive draft law meeting the Israel Defense Forces' needs. Netanyahu emphasized, "Anyone who does not study Torah will be drafted or go to jail."

Netanyahu was absent from the vote on the temporary law last week. The Israeli Supreme Court issued an interim injunction against the law, suspending its implementation pending further decisions. The court's order followed petitions challenging the law, which critics argued created unequal treatment between secular and ultra-Orthodox draft evaders.

The Movement for Quality Government in Israel welcomed the court's decision, calling it a victory for equality, the rule of law, and national security. They condemned the law for attempting to create two classes of draft evaders: secular individuals subject to arrest and investigation, and ultra-Orthodox individuals granted immunity based solely on their community affiliation. The group stressed that the fight for equal draft enforcement continues, aiming for a real arrangement that reduces inequality and ensures the draft obligation applies equally to all citizens.

Netanyahu’s remarks signal a firm stance on enforcing military service among the ultra-Orthodox, with plans to replace the temporary freeze with a full draft law after elections. The Supreme Court’s injunction halts the current law, reflecting ongoing legal and societal debates over conscription equality in Israel.