Likud MK Opposes Arrests for Haredi Draft Evaders, Backs Economic Sanctions

Likud MK Avi Kallner, a member of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, stated in a radio interview with 103FM that he opposes criminal arrests for haredi (ultra-Orthodox) yeshiva students who evade military draft. Instead, he supports economic sanctions as an alternative enforcement measure. The statement comes amid ongoing debate in Israel over haredi draft exemptions, a politically sensitive issue that has divided the coalition government. Kallner's position reflects internal Likud tensions between maintaining coalition stability with haredi parties and addressing public pressure for equal military service. The Knesset is currently considering legislation to extend draft exemptions, which has sparked protests from secular and national-religious groups.

Global Impact

Politically, this deepens the rift within Israel's coalition over a core social issue, potentially destabilizing the government and forcing early elections. Socially, it reinforces the secular-haredi divide, which could fuel further protests and civil disobedience.