Netanyahu Coalition Faces Crisis Over Haredi Draft Dodger Law

Israel — Ekhbary News Agency

Israel's governing coalition, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has plunged into a deep political crisis this week following the passage of controversial legislation. The new law, which temporarily freezes arrests for Haredi draft dodgers, has not only fractured the ruling alliance but also inflicted significant damage upon the Likud party's standing. This move comes amidst ongoing national security concerns, drawing widespread criticism from within and outside the government.

Key Figures Depart Amidst Outcry

The immediate fallout saw several prominent lawmakers distance themselves from the contentious bill. Absorption Minister Ofir Sofer of the Religious Zionism party, who had built a reputation for attacking Haredi draft exemptions, conspicuously skipped the plenum session and subsequently announced his decision not to run in the upcoming election. In a stark move, Likud MK Dan Illouz resigned, delivering a scathing critique of his party. He accused Likud of "hijacking" its core principles and failing to take responsibility for national security challenges, particularly after October 7, while simultaneously endorsing draft-evasion schemes. Other notable opponents, including former Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman Yuli Edelstein and Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, also departed, with Haskel quickly announcing the formation of a new political party.

Electoral Decline and Judicial Intervention

The political cost is clearly evident in recent public opinion polls. Data released this week shows a sharp decline for Likud, plummeting from an estimated 25-26 seats just weeks ago to a mere 21-22. Even the Shas party, a coalition partner, faces significant losses, with projections indicating a drop from its current 11 seats to seven. This erosion of support stems from religious voters who serve in the military, or whose families do, struggling to reconcile with a party perceived as protecting draft dodgers during wartime. Mayors and council heads across the country, including several senior Likud figures, collectively signed a blistering letter condemning the legislation as "a severe blow to national resilience and the cohesion of Israeli society." For what it's worth, the High Court has already moved swiftly, freezing the law's implementation within 24 hours of its passage. The court is now considering whether to strike down the law entirely, leaving the coalition to bear the full political cost without any assured benefit.