Netanyahu: Draft dodgers will 'enlist or go to prison'; admits current draft law failed

During a closed-door discussion on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the ongoing crisis surrounding Haredi conscription with a sharp shift in rhetoric. According to reports by Kan News and other Israeli outlets, Netanyahu asserted that those evading service who are not engaged in full-time Torah study will face criminal consequences. "Draft dodgers will either enlist or go to prison," the Prime Minister reportedly said.

Acknowledging Failure

Netanyahu explicitly admitted that the temporary "arrests law," which was intended to lower political tensions while gradually increasing Haredi enlistment numbers, did not achieve its goals. This admission marks a significant departure from previous attempts to manage the coalition crisis through incremental or temporary measures. The Prime Minister clarified that this specific legislative framework has failed and will not be brought back for consideration in the next government.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Netanyahu signaled his intent to form a "broad national government" following future elections. He stated that such a government would immediately pass a comprehensive draft law designed to meet the specific operational needs of the IDF. This development comes amid intense political pressure from both opposition figures and coalition partners. Earlier today, Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Liberman criticized the Prime Minister's handling of the issue, claiming Netanyahu cannot maintain a government without the support of those seeking draft exemptions.

The Prime Minister's remarks reflect the mounting tension over the "equal burden" of service, particularly as the IDF continues to manage multi-front security challenges. While the rhetoric suggests a stricter enforcement stance, the practical implementation remains tied to future political realignments and the formation of a new legislative mandate.