AhlulBayt News Agency: An expert on Israeli affairs has highlighted a critical issue that poses a serious challenge to the Israeli military.
Imad Abu Awad, director of the Al-Quds Center for Palestinian and Israeli Studies, discussed the long-standing controversy surrounding Haredi Jews' military service in Israel. He noted that while this issue has existed for decades, it has intensified in recent years, particularly amid the war in Gaza and the military recruitment crisis.
Abu Awad explained that the Haredi population in Israel has grown significantly over the past two decades, increasing pressure on them to join military service. Yair Lapid has stated that the avoidance of military service by Haredis costs Israel 120 billion shekels annually, meaning that each individual who refuses to serve costs the state approximately 1.5 million shekels.
He pointed out that political and religious obstacles prevent the enforcement of mandatory military service for Haredis. These groups hold significant power within the coalition government and could force the cabinet to collapse if such a law were passed.
Abu Awad emphasized that Netanyahu is currently unable to approve a military service law for Haredis, as doing so would push his cabinet to the brink of collapse and trigger widespread street protests. He noted that Israeli politicians understand the necessity of keeping Haredis within the coalition.
The expert warned that this ongoing crisis directly impacts Israel’s military capabilities, particularly as the army faces a shortage of forces. He stated that Israel’s military performance has been affected across multiple fronts due to this issue.
Abu Awad also accused Haredi groups of leveraging their political influence to secure financial benefits, despite Israel’s economic crisis. He noted that Haredis have maintained their budget allocations and remain exempt from austerity measures imposed on other sectors.
He concluded that the Haredi military service crisis is not limited to Netanyahu’s government but will challenge future Israeli cabinets as well. He warned that Haredis are prepared to leave the coalition and stage mass protests if any measures are taken against them.
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