Israeli Politicians Criticize Netanyahu’s Rejection of Draft Law for Haredim

Former Prime Minister and Yachdav party leader Naftali Bennett sharply criticized Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent comments on the draft law for full military conscription, calling them a cynical spin. Netanyahu had stated that his next government would pass a full draft law, but admitted the current temporary law freezing arrests of draft dodgers had failed and would not continue. Bennett accused Netanyahu of mistreating soldiers for years and doubted his ability to recruit even one Haredi soldier, citing Netanyahu’s reliance on Shas leader Aryeh Deri, who openly supports draft evasion.

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and former IDF Chief of Staff, echoed Bennett’s criticism, calling Netanyahu’s statements a "pathetic and cynical spin" from someone disconnected from Israel’s security needs. Eisenkot highlighted the IDF’s urgent need for soldiers and the collapsing reserve system, accusing Netanyahu of lying to maintain political power by relying on Haredi parties that oppose the draft. He emphasized that only a broad democratic coalition without Haredi draft evaders can form a stable government.

Former Israeli UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan also dismissed Netanyahu’s promises on conscription and unity, stating on social media that he would not join a narrow government. Netanyahu’s remarks came during a closed discussion where he acknowledged the failure of the temporary draft freeze law but promised a national government after elections that would enact a full draft law requiring all who do not study Torah to serve or face jail. Netanyahu was absent from the vote on the draft freeze law.

The controversy reflects ongoing tensions in Israeli politics over the military draft of the ultra-Orthodox community, with opposition leaders accusing Netanyahu of political maneuvering rather than genuine reform.