Former PM Naftali Bennett Rejects Coalition With Ultra-Orthodox Parties, Demands Full IDF Draft
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
By ישי כהן, ישי כהן
First reported by Kikar HaShabbat · Aug 6, 2026
What happened
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett ruled out any coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties that support military draft exemptions, condemning their stance as a threat to Israel’s future. He criticized Qatar as a deadly enemy financing terror attacks and reaffirmed he would not join a Netanyahu-led government. Bennett outlined a plan to enforce universal IDF service and integrate ultra-Orthodox education with core subjects, promising no government funds for draft evaders. He emphasized unity within the change bloc ahead of elections and rejected cooperation with parties opposing these principles.
- 01Naftali Bennett rejects any coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties supporting IDF draft exemptions.
- 02Bennett excludes Shas leader Aryeh Deri from his cabinet over draft evasion pride.
- 03He calls Qatar a deadly enemy and vows to declare it an enemy state if elected.
- 04Bennett will not join a Netanyahu-led government but prefers Netanyahu’s peaceful retirement.
- 05He demands universal military service and core curriculum in ultra-Orthodox education.
- 06Bennett closes the door on parties opposing draft laws despite their distancing from Netanyahu.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 2 outlets
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