Likud's Hanoch Milwiczky Warns Ultra-Orthodox Against Political Fragmentation Amid Budget and Draft Debates

Hanoch Milwiczky, chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee and a Likud MK, spoke in an interview with Kikar HaShabbat addressing several key political issues, including the release of budget funds during the Knesset recess, the contentious draft law for yeshiva students, and the future of the alliance between Likud and the ultra-Orthodox community.

Milwiczky supported the decision by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana to convene the Finance Committee during the recess to approve vital budget allocations for security, settlement projects, ultra-Orthodox education, and local authorities. He accused the opposition of wanting Israel to suffer in the coming months to gain electoral advantage.

Regarding the draft law, Milwiczky rejected claims that the ultra-Orthodox are a burden on Likud, emphasizing that those studying Torah should continue, but those not studying should not receive special exemptions. He highlighted new IDF programs allowing ultra-Orthodox soldiers to serve while maintaining religious observance, noting that commanders now understand the need for a larger army post-October 7 attacks.

Milwiczky sharply criticized the Attorney General and opposition leaders, accusing them of turning tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox into criminals overnight and using hatred as a political tool. He controversially stated that even Arab MKs Ahmad Tibi and Ayman Odeh "value Torah more" than some opposition figures.

Addressing ultra-Orthodox lawmakers considering alternative political options, Milwiczky warned that left-wing partners would not allow them to continue Torah study freely, citing threats such as nationalization of independent education and media closures. He stressed that Likud remains committed to protecting the Torah world.

Finally, Milwiczky admitted the government failed to advance judicial reforms in the current term, calling it a critical test for the next Knesset session. He warned that if reforms are not achieved, the right-wing bloc risks losing public trust and electoral support, likening it to a sports team being fired for poor performance.