Channel 12 Journalist Defends Gadi Eizenkot Amid Controversy Over Haredi Draft Comments

On Thursday, Channel 12 journalist Sivan Cohen addressed the recent controversy surrounding former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot's stance on drafting Haredi Jews into the Israeli military. The debate intensified after former Shin Bet head and Eizenkot's party candidate, Yoram Cohen, stated in a Kan Reshet Bet interview that their plan would allow up to three percent of the total draft, occasionally reaching thirty percent of the Haredi population, to receive exemptions as "elite" or other categories.

Cohen argued on 103fm radio that criticizing Eizenkot over this issue is a mistake. She emphasized that Eizenkot is realistic and honest, not making empty promises, and that he presents the facts as they are without illusions. She highlighted the necessity of drafting Haredim but stressed that in such a critical election, party leaders need to change their approach and focus on substantive discussion rather than empty slogans.

Additionally, the "Admor HaSarug" (a religious Zionist leader) publicly expressed support for Eizenkot, stating, "Gadi will be prime minister." Cohen's defense reflects a broader call for pragmatic dialogue on the sensitive topic of Haredi conscription in Israel's political discourse.