Draft dodgers will either 'enlist or go to prison,' Netanyahu says in closed-door meeting - report

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that ultra-Orthodox men who are not engaged in Torah study must either join the military or face prison. The statement was made during a closed-door meeting, according to Israeli public broadcaster KAN News.

Netanyahu reportedly conceded that the existing draft law has failed to achieve its objectives and will not be brought back in future government formations. He characterized a prior law that halted arrests of draft dodgers as a temporary measure. Its purpose, he explained, was to reduce tensions and boost recruitment numbers among the Haredi community.

“

enlist or go to prison

The prime minister's remarks signal a hardening stance on draft evasion within the Haredi sector, particularly for those not pursuing religious studies. The acknowledgment of the draft law's ineffectiveness points to ongoing challenges in integrating this segment of the population into mandatory military service.

“

lower the flames and increase the number of recruits among the Haredi public