Will the Haredim Withdraw After the Holiday? Netanyahu Calls Urgent Meeting
Urgent Meeting Called Amid Pressure
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened an urgent meeting with Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman Yuli Edelstein in response to increasing pressure from Haredi parties. The meeting aims to address the critical recruitment crisis that is disrupting coalition activities and delaying key legislation, including judicial reforms. With the looming deadline set by Haredi leaders following the Shavuot holiday, the need for a resolution has become pressing.
Background of the Crisis
The recruitment issue has become a focal point of contention, particularly since the outbreak of war, leading to widespread discussions in the Knesset without effective solutions. While the committee, led by Edelstein, has been examining proposals for a new draft law to regulate Haredi enlistment, no substantial agreements have been reached. This stagnation occurs alongside reports that thousands of Haredim have not responded to military recruitment notstarts.
Haredi Political Maneuvering
In particular, Agudat Yisrael’s faction, headed by Housing Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf, is threatening to withdraw from the government if significant progress is not achieved by the time the Shavuot holiday concludes. They are reportedly working to align with the Degel HaTorah party, led by Finance Committee Chairman Moshe Gafni, to strengthen their demands.
In a noteworthy meeting yesterday, Nechamia Alter, son of the Gur Rebbe, met with Rabbi Dov Lando, a prominent figure within the Lithuanian Haredi community. Both leaders expressed that without meaningful advancement on the laws they are advocating, they would reconsider their positions.
Potential Consequences of Withdrawal
Rabbi Lando warned through a letter in Degel HaTorah’s publication “Yated Neeman” that the authorities are planning to forcibly draft Torah scholars. He emphasized that if such actions are taken, they would be compelled to respond in ways they would prefer to avoid, hinting at the possibility of a government withdrawal.
Messages echoing similar sentiments were shared during the recent discussion between Rabbi Alter and Rabbi Moshe Halel Hirsch, another leader within the Degel HaTorah movement.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, the coalition faces a critical juncture. The outcome of Netanyahu’s urgent discussions with Edelstein could determine the future stability of the current government and the continuation of Haredi support. The political stakes are high, with both sides seeking a resolution that meets their respective needs for legislative progress and community commitments