Bennett Proposes Redirecting Billions to IDF Reservists Over Draft Dodgers

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett held a press conference Monday evening to unveil his vision for a new national conscription policy one that would channel billions of shekels in benefits toward IDF reservists and those who serve, while cutting privileges for those who refuse.

Bennett harshly criticized the current state of Israel’s draft law, vowing that “from the very first day of the government we will form, we will cancel the draft evasion law.” Calling it an “anti-Zionist law that weakens the IDF,” Bennett announced that his proposed “Law of Those Who Serve” would be a condition for any future coalition under his leadership.

The proposed law would dramatically shift state resources. Bennett outlined a benefits package for reservists and national service participants, including housing assistance, daycare support, and expanded access to academic programs and public services. Those who serve, he said, should be given “first place in line” for what the country has to offer.

At the heart of his proposal is the belief that draft dodging is not only a moral failure but an economic one. “The economic damage from draft dodging amounts to roughly NIS 100 billion a direct loss to the market,” Bennett warned. His plan would reallocate those lost funds to support those who shoulder the burden of national defense.

The statement follows growing public frustration with the current haredi draft law and recent inflammatory comments from United Torah Judaism chairman Yitzhak Goldknopf. In a Knesset committee meeting, Goldknopf equated military service sanctions for yeshiva students to a “yellow badge” a reference that sparked outrage across the political spectrum.

Bennett’s legislation would also extend educational and financial grants to anyone completing national or military service, while revoking certain benefits from those who do not. It’s a clear signal that under his vision, national contribution would become the benchmark for public support.

As Israel continues to face critical security challenges and the IDF strains under manpower shortages, the debate over who serves and who doesn't is quickly becoming one of the defining issues of the national agenda.

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