MK Dan Illouz Quits Yisrael Beiteinu Over Ultra-Orthodox Draft Stance

Member of Knesset Dan Illouz has announced his departure from Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party, citing disagreements over the potential for a government that includes ultra-Orthodox parties. Illouz, who previously left the Likud party over a conscription law, had joined Lieberman's party but now objects to the prospect of softening military draft requirements for the ultra-Orthodox.

Illouz stated that abandoning the draft law is unacceptable, calling it a vital necessity for the country due to the strain on reservists, the army's need for soldiers, and the economic burden. He also highlighted security challenges and the need for integrating the ultra-Orthodox into the workforce and education system.

While acknowledging the desire to avoid new elections, Illouz argued that this should not come at the cost of a law that effectively exempts the ultra-Orthodox from military service. He reminded voters of the promise made before the elections, which prompted his move from Likud to Yisrael Beiteinu.

Illouz recalled his previous opposition to a similar exemption bill during the 25th Knesset, an stance that led to his removal from the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee but ultimately saw the bill fail. He vowed to continue fighting against such legislation, regardless of which political side proposes it.

Concluding, Illouz described himself as not being tied to political blocs, prioritizing government policy over party affiliation. He proposed abandoning rigid bloc divisions in favor of agreed-upon principles for a future government, advocating for a "Zionist national unity government" that would win wars, ensure ultra-Orthodox conscription, and implement economic reforms.