'Not a Zionist, or religious': Bennett bashes Smotrich's opposition to enforcing haredi draft

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett publicly criticized Religious Zionist Party leader Bezalel Smotrich on Saturday, accusing him of betraying his religious-Zionist values by supporting legislation that exempts Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men from military service. The two opposition leaders, who lead the B Yachad (Together) party alongside Yair Lapid, are competing for religious-Zionist voters before the upcoming October 27 election.

The alliance aims to attract this traditional voting bloc, which is known for its conservative values and strong ties to traditional religious practices. During a Zoom meeting with party activists, Bennett harshly condemned Smotrich and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both of whom he accused of serving the interests of Shas chairman MK Arye Deri.

Smotrich's main target was the legislation that grants exemptions to Haredi men from IDF service, a policy he called "the architect of the evasion law." Bennett questioned how Smotrich could claim to be a religious Zionist while opposing military service. He invoked the Torah, arguing that avoiding military duty during wartime is against the principles outlined in the holy book.

Bennett concluded by labeling Smotrich as neither a Zionist nor religious, suggesting that his opposition to the draft was a lie and a sin.