Former PM Bennett Cites Security Needs for Not Drafting Ultra-Orthodox During Tenure

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett addressed the issue of drafting ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students in a recent interview on Radio 103FM. He explained that during his time in office, prior to the October 7 attacks, there was no clear understanding of the need to expand the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). "We did not yet realize the necessity to increase the IDF," Bennett admitted, noting that since the October 7 events and the ongoing war, there is now an urgent requirement for 20,000 additional soldiers in the defense system.

Bennett sharply criticized the current Religious Zionist Party leadership and the coalition for their handling of the issue. He singled out Bezalel Smotrich's tenure, stating that despite being in power for four years, they did not attempt to draft ultra-Orthodox individuals but instead allocated billions of shekels to those who avoid military service.

He further emphasized that the political and social approach toward the ultra-Orthodox sector must fundamentally change. Bennett rejected the slow, dialogue-based model previously pursued, calling it irrelevant to the current reality. "We understood that the gradual approach over the years, based on dialogue, will lead nowhere. My position today is clear and firm: not Zionist, not on my account," he declared, signaling a shift toward a more assertive stance on the issue.