Bennett Advocates Halting Funding for Israeli Draft Evaders

Bennett attributed this shortage to draft evasion, which he said results in casualties among serving soldiers. Bennett criticized a proposed plan by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to encourage ultra-Orthodox enlistment, describing Smotrich as a key figure in enabling evasion.

He mentioned Smotrich's alliance with Knesset members Yitzhak Goldknopf and Arye Deri as a factor in the issue. Bennett also held Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responsible for prioritizing politics over national well-being.

Measures on Enlistment Bennett noted that there are 100,000 young, healthy ultra-Orthodox individuals who could enlist, and that enlisting one-fifth of them would address the shortage. He proposed halting all funding channels that support draft evasion. This includes ending support for education that opposes state values and lacks subjects like math and English.

He stated there will be no autonomous ultra-Orthodox state within Israel. Bennett emphasized that soldiers are being overworked, leading to diminished sharpness and increased risks. He connected these issues to the need for more personnel to maintain positions after operations.

Context Bennett announced his intention to form a Zionist government to replace the current one. He said he has support from voters, including those from Likud and Religious Zionism parties. When asked about joining Netanyahu's government, Bennett called the question absurd and projected winning 61 Zionist mandates compared to Netanyahu's 38.

Bennett reflected on the security situation following the October 7 massacre, describing it as a difficult trauma. He expressed optimism about Israel's ability to recover and thrive. The interview occurred on Monday, as reported by @Jerusalem_Post on April 23, 2026.