Dan Illouz Quits Likud Over Draft Law Disputes, Joins Yisrael Beiteinu

Dan Illouz, a Knesset member known for opposing the exemption from military draft and daycare laws, has resigned from the Likud party and joined Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman. Illouz announced his resignation on Tuesday, with Shabtai Katsh, a Haredi politician, set to replace him in the outgoing Knesset. Illouz criticized Likud for abandoning the values he believed in, such as universal conscription, free-market economics, and a strong security stance. He said, "Today, instead of promoting universal draft, they promote draft evasion; instead of defeating the enemy, Likud returns to a rotation concept." He also stated that Netanyahu should have resigned after October 7.

Illouz explained that he stayed in Likud during the fight against the exemption law to prevent its passage, as his successor would have allowed the legislation to pass. He rejected claims that his move was politically motivated due to poor primary prospects, emphasizing he led these battles knowing the political cost. Illouz said many Likud members privately agreed with his positions but felt the party now prioritizes staying in power at any cost.

In a recent podcast, Illouz said Netanyahu's appeal has faded and that Likud has lost about 10 seats since the last Knesset elections, seats that he represented. He also criticized coalition chairman Ofir Katz for prioritizing coalition survival over values and accused him of repeatedly conceding to Haredi parties. Illouz advocates for a coalition without Haredi parties, arguing their opposition to integrating Haredim into the army and economy threatens Israel's future.

Regarding Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman, Illouz expressed full confidence, citing Lieberman's consistent commitment to the draft law and his leadership since before October 7. Illouz's departure marks a significant political shift amid ongoing debates over military conscription and coalition composition in Israel.