Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Liberman criticized the government for extending mandatory IDF service by two months while Haredi young men remain exempt from enlistment, and called for an investigation into the number of career officers resigning, according to N12.
At a faction meeting of his Yisrael Beiteinu party on Monday, MK Avigdor Liberman accused the government of institutionalizing a dual system: extending mandatory military service for all soldiers by two months while simultaneously exempting the entire Haredi sector from conscription and enforcement. 'It is unthinkable that in the same week they arrange mass draft evasion for one sector — not everyone, only for Haredim,' Liberman said, according to N12. He added that while a secular or Religious Zionist draft dodger is imprisoned, 'all Haredi young men will be exempt from enlistment and arrests.' Liberman described the policy as a 'severe blow to Israel's security' and suggested that the government investigate the number of career officers who have resigned. Liberman, a veteran opposition figure and former defense minister, has long been a vocal critic of the coalition's approach to Haredi military service and the broader impact on IDF readiness. The extension of mandatory service, which the government has advanced amid ongoing operational demands, has drawn widespread debate.
3 developments
- DevelopingLiberman promises to repeal Torah Study Basic Law after it passes
- StrongNetanyahu says arrests and jail deter Haredi enlistment, suggests temporary pause in drafting
- DevelopingLieberman urges cabinet to listen to parents of soldiers, not give hollow statements
- StrongLiberman says security worse than before Oct. 7; journalist notes he declined defense post
Source and signal
- Internal intake