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MK Goldknopf Sparks Controversy by Blaming Draft Dodgers in Tel Aviv During Torah Study Law Debate

How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.

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First reported by Arutz Sheva · Jun 28, 2026

What happened

During a Knesset committee debate on a Basic Law about Torah study, MK Yitzhak Goldknopf blamed draft dodgers for living in Tel Aviv, sparking opposition outrage. He compared Torah study exemptions to legal cultural and sports exemptions and stressed Torah study's essential role for Israel's existence.

01MK Yitzhak Goldknopf accused draft dodgers of living in Tel Aviv during a Knesset debate.
02Opposition members reacted angrily, condemning the generalization and blaming of Tel Aviv residents.
03Goldknopf compared Torah study exemptions to legal exemptions in culture and sports, including the World Cup.
04The committee chair tried to calm the heated debate amid loud protests.
05Goldknopf emphasized that Israel's existence depends on uninterrupted Torah study.
06He stated that Torah study is respected worldwide and should not be hindered in Israel.

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Yitzhak Goldknopf