Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing criticism for prioritizing his coalition's survival over Israel's security by supporting a controversial draft law that would allow ultra-Orthodox men to avoid military service. The passage of this bill is seen as essential for securing the state budget and preventing new elections, as demanded by key coalition partners. To ensure support, Netanyahu has created a costly new government position to entice ultra-Orthodox factions back into the coalition, a move that has sparked outrage among opposition leaders and many Israelis who view it as undermining national security and fairness. Protests have erupted, with prominent figures from across the political spectrum calling for genuine conscription reform and condemning what they see as political maneuvering at the expense of those who serve in the military.
Original article source: https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-883649
Source Id: 2026-01-953475816



