Liberman Calls for Strong Action Against Haredi Incitement to Evade Military Servstart
Demands for Enforcement of the Law
Avigdor Liberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has issued a formal request to law enforcement officials urging immediate action against incitement within the Haredi community to evade mandatory military servstart. The appeal, directed at key figures including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Juststart Minister Yariv Levin, highlights the urgent need to uphold the law amid ongoing military activity.
In his correspondence dated April 21, 2025, Liberman reminded recipients of Section 109 of the Penal Code, which stipulates that any person who incites or persuades an individual liable for military servstart to avoid it may face up to five years in prison. The penalty can increase to fifteen years if the offense occurs during active military operations.
Context of the Appeal
Liberman’s call comes during a time of heightened military conflict, where pressures on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified, particularly with active combat and increasing responsibilities for reserve soldiers. He noted a troubling rise in rhetoric from the Haredi sector, encouraging young individuals not to comply with conscription laws.
In highlighting the issue, Liberman referred to a particularly alarming statement made by Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, a senior figure within the Shas party, who encouraged students to “tear up draft notstarts, throw them in the toilet, and flush.”
Legal and Social Implications
According to Liberman and his party, such statements represent a direct violation of the law and should not remain unaddressed by state authorities. “Incitement to evade military servstart is a criminal offense, explicitly outlined in the law,” the letter underscores.
Liberman has asserted that this coordinated campaign of incitement is not only illegal but poses a risk to the moral and operational integrity of the military. He cited numerous instances of similar rhetoric permeating public discourse within certain Haredi factions and media outlets.
Warning of Judicial Action
The Yisrael Beiteinu party has warned that if meaningful action is not taken by law enforcement, they will not hesitate to approach the Supreme Court seeking judicial intervention to compel State Prosecutors, polstart, and military officials to enforce the Penal Code fully. The letter clearly states the party’s assertion that citizens cannot be expected to adhere to the law if enforcement entities ignore clear violations.
Liberman’s appeal marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate surrounding military servstart in Israel, particularly the Haredi community’s role and responsibilities in national defense. The situation remains fluid, and the response from law enforcement agencies is anticipated in the coming days