As he pushes for ultra-Orthodox enlistment, Moshe Leitner aims to put Haredi Public on a new path

Amid increasing criticism of existing Haredi parties regarding ultra-Orthodox enlistment, a new political force has emerged in Israel. The Haredi Public Party aims to enter the Knesset or secure representation on other lists, championing a different approach: supporting the draft of Haredi men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long relied on Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ) as key coalition partners. However, these parties have faced accusations of pushing legislation that critics claim does not genuinely increase Haredi conscription. The issue has become particularly central in the upcoming elections, with opposition leaders vowing not to form a government with parties that maintain this stance.

Moti Leitner, deputy mayor of Beit Shemesh and leader of the new Haredi Public Party, outlined his vision in an interview with The Jerusalem Post. He believes that while some Haredi men should continue full-time Torah study, the majority of ultra-Orthodox men must take responsibility by serving in the military or performing national service. "They must understand that the way to protect the one who sits and studies in yeshiva is for them to take responsibility [and enlist]," Leitner stated.

Leitner's party also plans to advocate for core curriculum subjects in Haredi schools and work towards bridging the divide between Haredi communities and the broader Israeli society. Leitner's personal experience, having enlisted in the IDF later in life and completed his high school exams after growing up without core curriculum studies, informs his perspective. The party launched a significant advertising campaign across major Haredi cities in late July.

If The Haredi Public Party gains Knesset representation, Leitner intends to push for genuine Haredi conscription and educational reforms. His platform aims to integrate Haredi men more actively into Israeli society and service, challenging the status quo maintained by established ultra-Orthodox political factions.

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They must understand that the way to protect the one who sits and studies in yeshiva is for them to take responsibility [and enlist].