Former PM Bennett Condemns Israeli Government's Haredi Draft Bill Amidst 20,000 Soldier Shortfall

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has sharply criticized the current government's proposed legislation concerning the conscription of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Bennett's statement, made public following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cancellation of an address on the matter, highlights a significant IDF manpower deficit in the aftermath of the October 7 conflict. He argued that the new bill is designed to allow widespread draft evasion, rather than address the nation's security needs.

Bennett stated that "after Oct 7, Israelis fought like lions, yet the IDF now faces a 20,000 soldier shortfall." He presented a stark choice: either draft Haredim to share the burden or force reservists into "another 120 reserve days every year… destroying their professional and family future." The former premier emphasized that approximately 100,000 young Haredi men could be trained for military service within five months.

The contentious bill, currently advanced by the Netanyahu government, has been labeled by Bennett as "full of formulations and tricks meant to mislead you." He specifically pointed to provisions offering "an immediate pardon to all draft evaders" and granting exemptions to Haredi men who delay enlistment until age 26, effectively ensuring they will not serve. This comes despite a High Court of Justice ruling that ended blanket exemptions for full-time religious students.

The issue of Haredi conscription has been a long-standing point of contention in Israel, intensified by the ongoing conflict and the IDF's increased demand for personnel. Public opinion polls indicate a rising demand for ultra-Orthodox enlistment, with 85% of non-Haredi Jews supporting sanctions for those refusing service. The IDF has reportedly stated an urgent need for 12,000 additional recruits, a figure that underscores the gravity of the manpower situation.

The proposed legislation has faced widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum, including from within Netanyahu's own Likud party. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called the bill a "disgrace" and a "betrayal" of soldiers, while former National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi warned it "enables evasion" and "endangers the future of the state." Critics argue the bill prioritizes political coalition stability over national security, as Haredi parties are crucial allies in the governing coalition.