Israeli actress Maya Dagan has sparked controversy with her candid criticism of the ultra-Orthodox community in Israel, following a national tragedy that claimed the lives of eight soldiers.
In an emotional Instagram Story post today (Sunday), Dagan mourned the fallen soldiers and expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing loss. Her post, accompanied by photos of the deceased, took a sharp turn with a pointed critique aimed at the ultra-Orthodox community's approach to national service.
Dagan's remarks come in the wake of a recent legislative development in the Israeli Knesset, which saw the continuation of exemptions from military service for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students. She drew a stark comparison between the contributions of these students, who primarily focus on religious studies and prayer, and the sacrifices made by IDF soldiers on the front lines.
"The ones who protect us are these heroes," Dagan asserted in her post, "They are the ones who go to battle, who do not fear, who do not hide. They are the ones who sacrifice their lives so that we can sleep a little quieter. They are the ones who command us in their deaths. Not you."
This is not the first time Maya Dagan has stirred controversy with her outspoken views. She also criticized the Netanyahu government, labeling it as the true adversary amid ongoing national challenges.
"What else needs to happen for us to wake up?" she questioned in her post. "What other law needs to pass for us to understand that our real enemy is right here? That people with ill intentions are running our lives?"
The actress's comments have ignited a fierce debate on social media, with supporters applauding her bravery and critics condemning what they perceive as a divisive stance during a period of national mourning.
Dagan concluded her post urging for collective action to reclaim control and restore stability in the face of escalating challenges across the country.