Shas Proposes Tefillin for Teens as Golan Fires Back Over Conscription
Shas leader Aryeh Deri announced an election plan to provide tefillin to all 13-year-olds, drawing sharp criticism and a counter-pledge on mandatory military service from The Democrats leader Yair Golan.
Shas leader Aryeh Deri released an election video on Thursday announcing a new initiative to strengthen Jewish identity. Under the proposed program, every 13-year-old boy would receive a bar mitzvah kit from the Ministry of Education, including a pair of tefillin and a tallit. Deri stated that Shas will also work to mandate prayer spaces for students in schools.
Deri criticized recent statements by The Democrats leader Yair Golan regarding the removal of religion from the public sphere, calling them shocking. He emphasized that tefillin are a symbol of the Jewish people and that the program aims to reinforce the connection to tradition and national security.
In immediate response, Golan posted on X with his own campaign promise: "Here is our election promise - the state will distribute draft notices to every 18-year-old boy and girl. Everyone will receive a draft notice. Tefillin by choice, enlistment as a duty."
