Israeli Army Faces Internal Strife Amid Gaza Conflict
The Israeli army is deeply entangled in the ongoing Gaza war, further complicated by domestic conflicts involving the conscription law. The controversial issue has achieved heightened attention, especially after the Knesset approved the first reading of the conscription exemptions for religious Jews (Haredim). The exemption law, which still needs a second and third reading to become final, has caused outrage among many in the Israeli reserve forces. They feel betrayed by a government more focused on political survival than national defense.
Resentment Among Reservists
Quoted by the newspaper "Yedioth Ahronoth," reservists expressed their frustration, describing the new law as a scandal. They argue it exacerbates the rift between those who bear the burden of defending Israel and those who evade it. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant has vocalized a need for equal military service across all societal segments, stating, 'We need everyone to defend ourselves in this country.' Galant highlighted future challenges that necessitate comprehensive recruitment.
Political Backlash and Public Outcry
Criticism isn't limited to the military. Political figures like Yair Lapid have accused the government of abandoning IDF soldiers in favor of 'petty, self-interested, cowardly and cynical politics.' Lapid's fierce rhetoric pointed out that the new law demoralizes the army, which is already stretched thin and starving for personnel. His concerns resonate deeply in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict since October 7th, where the human cost has been particularly heavy.
- The conscription law has been a point of contention since the Supreme Court annulled the exemption law in 2017, originally enacted in 2015. Since then, successive governments have struggled to reach a consensus. Religious Jews constitute about 13% of Israel's 9.7 million population and are traditionally exempted on the basis of dedicating their lives to religious studies. However, this exemption has caused division, especially during times of conflict like the current Gaza war.
- At a faction meeting, Yisrael Beitenu leader Avigdor Lieberman criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership, describing it as unqualified and detrimental to the nation. The volatile political atmosphere reflects broader societal divides, accentuated by the ongoing conflict. Secular parties are increasingly vocal in demanding that religious communities share in the nation's defense burdens, particularly during crises.
