Former MK Dan Illouz Criticizes Lieberman Over Conscription Compromise
Former MK Dan Illouz criticized Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman over his willingness to compromise on ultra-Orthodox military conscription. The remarks sparked widespread political reactions across the coalition and opposition.
Former MK Dan Illouz, who ran on the Yisrael Beytenu ticket, criticized party leader Avigdor Lieberman over his recent willingness to compromise on ultra-Orthodox military conscription to form a governing coalition. Illouz argued that conscription is an existential necessity rather than merely a value-based issue, citing the heavy burdens placed on military reservists.
Lieberman recently stated that the party would be flexible on the conscription issue to prevent another round of elections. Illouz, who previously left Likud over differences regarding the draft law, stressed that compromising on exemptions violates explicit electoral promises made to voters.
Political reactions to Lieberman's stance varied sharply across the political spectrum. Yair Golan, leader of The Democrats, expressed optimism regarding ongoing coalition negotiations and real progress toward forming a new government. Meanwhile, United Torah Judaism MK Yaakov Asher criticized opposition politicians for what he described as sudden flexibility after years of intense rhetoric.
Other political figures also voiced sharp criticism. Yoaz Hendel accused coalition architects of abandoning reservists, while Likud MK Boaz Bismuth shared archival footage highlighting Lieberman's previous campaign promises against ultra-Orthodox exemptions. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir joined the criticism, mocking the shifting political alliances surrounding the conscription debate.
