Energy Minister Eli Cohen Calls for Mandatory IDF Service for Non-Religious Students
Energy Minister and Security Cabinet member Eli Cohen emphasized the need to finalize the military conscription law after the upcoming elections, supporting Prime Minister Netanyahu's stance that those not studying in yeshiva must serve in the Israel Defense Forces. In an interview with Amir Cohen on Kan Heritage, Eli Cohen stated that the Likud party's position has long been clear: "Those whose Torah study is not their profession must enlist." He noted the law should have passed in the current Knesset session but was delayed due to the Prime Minister's focus on managing the war. Cohen also mentioned discussions with Haredi leadership indicating some agreement on mandatory enlistment for those not in yeshiva.
Regarding the upcoming elections, Cohen backed Likud's decision to allow the Prime Minister to reserve candidates on the party list while most candidates will be chosen through primaries. He described the elections as historically significant, highlighting the fight against establishing a Palestinian state and the need to complete judicial reforms. Cohen criticized political figures Gadi Eizenkot, Avigdor Lieberman, and Naftali Bennett, urging right-wing voters to support Likud.
On Iran, Cohen said the Tehran regime avoids direct attacks on Israel due to fear of harsh Israeli retaliation. He acknowledged U.S. President Donald Trump's diplomatic efforts but expressed Israeli skepticism about agreements with Iran. Cohen predicted that continued Iranian violations would prompt U.S. action and stated that true regional stability depends on the fall of the Tehran regime, which he described as economically collapsing and unsustainable.
Concerning Gaza, Cohen affirmed Israel's commitment to a political process that includes disarming Hamas, though he doubted Hamas would agree voluntarily. He asserted Israel has the capability to act unilaterally if necessary. On Gaza's future and settlement renewal, Cohen stressed that security depends on settlement presence and said plans are being considered to renew settlements in northern Gaza. He concluded with a firm statement: "Between the Jordan River and the sea, there will be only one state, the State of Israel."
