MK Hili Tropper Demands Universal Draft Law as Condition for Joining Any Israeli Government

MK Hili Tropper, chairman of the Beit Tzioni party, stated in an interview with Yishai Cohen on Kikar HaShabbat that his party will not join any future Israeli coalition without a mandatory draft law applying to all citizens, including military, national, or civilian service. He emphasized that the debate over draft quotas is now irrelevant following recent years' events, particularly the ultra-Orthodox community's refusal to serve during Israel's longest war.

Tropper rejected extreme proposals such as revoking voting rights from the ultra-Orthodox, instead advocating for economic sanctions as the effective tool to ensure equal burden-sharing. He clarified that his party will not support any government reliant on non-Zionist parties, including ultra-Orthodox or Arab factions, and set clear conditions for future cooperation with ultra-Orthodox parties based on their acceptance of universal conscription.

Addressing his political base, Tropper said he targets right-center voters and reservists who feel politically homeless, distinguishing his party from others like Benny Gantz's by focusing on a broad Zionist coalition independent of Netanyahu's bloc. He stated he would support a Zionist government but not one dependent on Netanyahu's non-Zionist allies.

Regarding the draft law, Tropper insisted on zero exemptions, applying equally to all Israelis regardless of religion or background, and confirmed this as a non-negotiable prerequisite for coalition participation. He also opposed denying voting rights to those who do not serve, favoring economic penalties instead.

On Arab parties, Tropper was unequivocal that his party will not join or support any government relying on Arab parties' votes or abstentions. Despite recent polls showing his party near the electoral threshold, he expressed confidence in gaining more support before the elections and pledged to act responsibly throughout the campaign.