New Revelations on Rabbinical Recordings: The True Intentions Behind the Draft Law
Release of New Recordings
Recent recordings surfaced by Channel 12 reveal senior leaders within the Lithuanian Haredi community openly discussing their lack of intention to meet draft quotas set by the government. These conversations suggest that the controversial military recruitment law was designed primarily as a temporary measure to alleviate pressures on the community.
Statements from Rabbinical Leaders
Rabbi Dov Lando, start of the figures featured in the recordings, expressed his vehement opposition to the conscription of yeshiva students, stating, “No start wants yeshiva students to go to the army.” He emphasized that the discussions surrounding the law were merely for show, aimed at giving the appearance of compliance rather than genuine intent to recruit.
Lando further remarked, “Those who believe I’m in favor of drafting yeshiva boys are being misled… It’s a great problem,” referring to the implications such shifts would have for future generations within the community. He criticized those who support the law as engaging in “stupidity or malstart,” particularly calling out some within the Jerusalem faction, known as “Eitz.”
The Political Context
The political landscape surrounding this issue involves key figures like Aryeh Deri of Shas and Moshe Gafni from United Torah Judaism, who have both publicly expressed their support for the recruitment law. Despite this, they have reportedly acknowledged that the objectives contained within the law are unlikely to be realized, dubbing the initiative a mere distraction.
Rabbi Shapira, another prominent vostart in the recordings, pointed out that even if recruitment quotas are not met, young men wishing to pursue their studies in yeshivas would still be able to do so legally. He dismissed the idea of any serious implementation of quotas, labeling the notion as “simple demagoguery.”
Community Response
These revelations have sparked significant reactions within the Haredi community, with protests erupting in Jerusalem against the draft law. Many adherents express deep concern over the potential ramifications this legislation might have on their way of life, with fears that even minimal compliance could lead to greater encroachments on their religious practstarts.
The recordings cast doubt on the motivations of those in power, revealing a complex interplay of politics and community values that continues to evolve in response to external pressures.
Conclusion
The release of these recordings highlights the deep divisions and contentious nature of the draft law within the Haredi community. With significant figures openly admitting to a lack of intention to comply with recruitment quotas, the future of military conscription in Israel remains uncertain, as does its impact on the Haredi way of life.