Haredi Public Party Launches Major Campaign Addressing Draft and Education Issues

The Haredi Public Party, which announced its intention to run in Israel's 26th Knesset elections at a launch event in Beit Shemesh on Sunday, has begun a widespread campaign across Haredi communities. Under the slogan "Where Were You in the Last Term?", the party outlines its positions on key issues affecting the Haredi sector, including the military draft crisis, protecting Torah study, and the inclusion of mathematics and English studies in ultra-Orthodox schools, as well as employment concerns.

Party chairman Moti Leitner sharply criticized the current Haredi political leadership during the launch, warning that the Haredi community faces an existential threat. He argued that recent extremism has harmed the community and worsened its relations with broader Israeli society. On the draft issue, Leitner stated the party's stance that full protection should be granted to those studying Torah, while those not engaged in study must serve in the military. "Those who learn will receive full protection. Those who do not learn will serve," he said.

The party plans to focus in the coming weeks on education, poverty, and employment issues, promising to release detailed platforms and plans soon. Their campaign aims to establish the party's voice within the Haredi political discourse and present their positions to voters ahead of the elections.