Netanyahu's political survival deal with the ultra-Orthodox comes at Israel's expense - opinion

A controversial political deal between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ultra-Orthodox parties is drawing sharp criticism, with accusations that it comes at the expense of Israel's national interests and exacerbates societal divisions. The agreement, which reportedly includes concessions on enlistment laws and budget allocations, is seen by critics as deepening the rift between secular and religious communities.

“

The rotten deal Netanyahu is weaving in public with his non-Zionist partners allowed one of their senior figures on Monday to cruise in his luxurious car, equipped with a security siren, in order to block Israel's roads.

This political maneuvering is occurring while the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the public are shouldering the heavy burden of ongoing conflict. The article highlights the perceived imbalance, where a significant sector of the ultra-Orthodox community allegedly receives substantial state resources and benefits without commensurate contribution to national security or wartime efforts.

“

All this is happening while the IDF, the body that is supposed to protect our existence here, is collapsing inward.

The author criticizes figures like Yitzhak Goldknopf, representing a large ultra-Orthodox community, for allegedly exploiting state resources. This community is described as growing rapidly and drawing enormous funding, particularly during the Netanyahu era. The article contrasts this with the strain on the IDF, which has suffered heavy casualties and a large number of wounded and traumatized soldiers since October 7.

“

An uncontrollable binge. A headlong rush. A mass assault on the public coffers, or what is left of them.

Instead of austerity or increased contribution from sectors not directly involved in combat, the article claims there is an "uncontrollable binge" on public funds. It points to specific benefits for the ultra-Orthodox, such as the Basic Law: Torah Study and the kashrut law, alongside potential increases in state payroll for positions like kashrut supervisors, which could further inflate prices. The piece suggests these benefits are funded by the general public, referred to as "suckers."

“

The ultra-Orthodox receive Basic Law: Torah Study, the kashrut law, and a whole host of other benefits, all at our expense.