Haredi leaders, Yahya Sinwar: Different ideologies, the same refusal to face reality - opinion

An opinion piece draws a stark comparison between the fanaticism of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the actions of some Haredi leaders in Israel concerning military service. The author, referencing an article about Sinwar's mindset, suggests that Sinwar was prepared to accept the devastation of Gaza as a price for igniting a regional war against Israel. This, the author argues, exemplifies fanaticism: prioritizing an ideological objective above human welfare, national survival, and moral responsibility.

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Fanatics treat consequences as irrelevant, or even useful, provided suffering advances the sacred cause.

The article then pivots to a different, yet related, concern: legislation passed by the Knesset that temporarily prevents the arrest and prosecution of tens of thousands of Haredi men evading military service. This move effectively halts most Haredi enlistment for months, even as the IDF faces urgent needs during a multi-front conflict. The chief of staff has deemed the proposal "inconceivable" and incompatible with the army's requirements.

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The chief of staff called the proposal “inconceivable” and incompatible with the army’s needs.

Instead of embarrassment, some Haredi politicians celebrated the legislation, labeling enforcement as "persecution" of Torah students. One politician even threatened civil rebellion if courts intervened. The author clarifies that this is not a comparison of the Haredi community to Hamas, emphasizing that Hamas is a terrorist organization while Haredim are fellow Jews. The comparison is specifically about the "fanaticism of leaders who elevate one ideological demand above all else."

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I am comparing something narrower: the fanaticism of leaders who elevate one ideological demand