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Finally someone pushing for enlistment equality

MK Evgeny Sova to IDF Chief of Staff: "Everyone should draft to the IDF, including Haredim"

In an interview with Arutz Sheva on Tuesday, MK Evgeny Sova (Yisrael Beytenu), a member of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, discussed key takeaways from his recent meeting with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. The discussion covered several topics, including the state of the war, the enlistment of haredim, and the need for a new draft law.

Chabad soldier enlisting in brand new Haredi brigade
Photo: IDF

According to Sova, the Chief of Staff provided the committee with an open and honest briefing about the situation in Gaza. While there was praise for the army’s successes in the region, there was also some criticism, particularly concerning the handling of humanitarian aid. Sova explained that Hamas was reportedly seizing the aid intended for the civilian population, and the IDF was considering the possibility of distributing aid directly to ensure it reached those in need.

Sova emphasized that during the meeting, the term "ceasefire" was not used, with the Chief of Staff making it clear that Hamas remains a terrorist organization. Sova also directed criticism at members of the political echelon, specifically coalition members who often attack the army. He questioned why Prime Minister Netanyahu allows Hamas to maintain control over Gaza, suggesting that political leaders should take responsibility for the situation in the Strip.

The conversation also touched on the issue of haredi enlistment in the army. Sova explained that Halevi mentioned the army's current inability to handle large-scale enlistment, but Sova stressed the importance of preparing the military to absorb tens of thousands of recruits, including those from the haredi sector. He responded strongly to comments made by Shas MK Yossi Taieb, who claimed that his son would refuse military service and study Torah in prison if instructed by his rabbis. Sova called this statement unacceptable, especially given that Taieb had served as a combat soldier himself.

Sova made a strong case for a universal draft law, urging that every Israeli citizen turning 18 should be required to report to an enlistment center. He explained that while individuals with exceptional skills could be granted a deferment, it was crucial that the current system, which allows tens of thousands to be automatically exempt from service, be overhauled. Sova advocated for a draft law that was comprehensive and free of political deals, quotas, or targets, stressing the need for all citizens to share in the national burden and contribute to the country’s defense and workforce.

Israel National News contribute to this article.

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