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Lapid, Bennett Assail Ultra-Orthodox Draft Bill After Netanyahu Cancels Primetime Address

Critics say the proposal preserves mass exemptions despite an army shortfall of at least 12,000 recruits.

Overview

  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu scrapped a planned televised defense of his coalition’s conscription plan, drawing fresh condemnation.
  • Opposition leader Yair Lapid called the measure a draft‑dodging law with no quotas, sanctions or enforcement, vowing to stop it.
  • Naftali Bennett said the bill offers immediate pardons to draft evaders and permanent exemptions at age 26, calling it a political deal led by Aryeh Deri.
  • IDF figures cited in the coverage say roughly 80,000 ultra‑Orthodox men of service age have not enlisted and the military needs at least 12,000 more recruits.
  • The legislation remains in committee as pressure mounts on the coalition and legal doubts linger following High Court limits on blanket exemptions.