Akiva Novik Criticizes Yinon Magal for Defending Ultra-Orthodox Draft Exemptions
In an open letter published in the ultra-Orthodox weekly "HaDor" this Sabbath, journalist Akiva Novik sharply criticizes Yinon Magal for becoming the most prominent defender of the ultra-Orthodox narrative on military conscription. Novik argues that although Magal holds significant influence among ultra-Orthodox youth, he fails to use this status to encourage their enlistment in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Novik highlights Magal's unique standing in the ultra-Orthodox community, noting that aside from political rabbis, only Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Magal are truly admired by ultra-Orthodox youth. Despite this, Novik claims Magal's writings rarely promote enlistment. He expresses confidence that Magal personally supports drafting ultra-Orthodox men but accuses him of prioritizing political battles and criticism of his opponents over addressing the social issue of draft evasion.
Novik urges Magal to dedicate more effort to combating the widespread incitement against the IDF within ultra-Orthodox circles, which he describes as including lies and fabrications. He closes his letter by directly questioning Magal's silence amid this hostile discourse, asking, "Where is your important voice?"
