Shocking Demand from Edelstein Derails Negotiations with Haredim

Tense Meeting Raises Concerns Among Haredi Lawmakers

A significant and heated meeting took place on Tuesday between members of the Knesset from the Haredi factions and Yuli Edelstein, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, regarding the status of the conscription law. During this meeting, the Haredi lawmakers were taken aback by Edelstein’s proposed provisions, which they claim would severely limit their community’s privileges related to military servstart exemptions for those pursuing religious studies.

Edelstein’s Proposal Sparks Outrage

According to sources who attended the meeting, Edelstein intends to revoke state benefits for Haredi individuals who choose to study instead of serving in the army. While the Haredi factions were somewhat amenable to personal sanctions against those receiving draft orders, they were not prepared for a proposal that would undermine the educational pursuits of students.

A senior member of the Haredi Knesset expressed his shock, stating, “There wasn’t even a hint that this is what Edelstein would do. All this time during the discussions, he gave a false impression that we would reach agreements and that he was interested in them. In the end, Edelstein wants those who go to study Torah to be treated as second-class citizens. This will not happen, period.”

Implications for Educational Exemptions

It is worth noting that individuals who study Torah while fulfilling military servstart obligations are not expected to be adversely affected by the draft law Edelstein is proposing. However, many within the coalition were skeptical that the law would be as stringent as Edelstein’s stance would suggest.

A senior member of the Likud party commented to Maariv, “Edelstein is thinking about the primaries. Right now, he is what is known as a ‘dead horse.’ By insisting on a draconian version of the law against the Haredim, he believes he gains support. If we go to elections, it will be because he refused to compromise. Should Netanyahu remove him from the chairmanship, he will be seen as the person trying to draft Haredim while Netanyahu did not permit it.”

Potential Political Repercussions

The comments suggest that Edelstein’s actions are perceived as politically motivated, aimed at garnering support in upcoming primaries, despite the potential risks to the stability of the right-wing government during a period of conflict.

As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of Edelstein’s proposal will require careful monitoring, as both the Haredi community and members of the governing coalition react to the dramatic changes being suggested in the draft law. The balance between military obligations and the rights of religious students remains a contentious point in Israeli politics