As reported by YWN-ISRAEL, the Defense Ministry decided to ‘punish’ Yeshivat Bnei David in Yishuv Eli as Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman wishes to save face in light of remarks by Rabbi Yigal Levinstein. Levinstein came under fire for addressing compelled integrated service of men and women in the military and Lieberman wanted to oust him and Bnei David from the mechinot program, albeit without success. However, there are measures Lieberman can take, which it now appears he will.
The rosh yeshiva of Bnei David, Rabbi Eli Sadan appealed the sanctions, but his words fell on deaf ears in the Defense Ministry. As a result, despite the long-standing arrangement that existed for years, talmidim in Bnei David will no longer be permitted to continue learning for a second year before entering the IDF, NRG News reports. This second-year option was exclusive to Bnei David as per the ministry’s director-general, Udi Adam.
Many are commenting on Lieberman’s decision, including MK (Bayit Leumi) Shuli Muallem, who cited it is most unfortunate that talmidim must suffer due to issues that belong in the political arena.
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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5 Responses
Chutzpah, Liberman!
They should just declare themselves Charedim snd request individual exemptions/deferrals for an extra 2 years or more. That would teach his arrogance Liberman a lesson.
Compelled integrated service of men and women in the military is NOT a political issue. It is an issue of spiritual life and death! We must rally behind Rabbi Levinstein, and everyone who stands up for Hashem v’Toraso. We cannot allow ourselves to fall into complacence as efforts are made to ruin young Jewish men and women.
And yet again no comment from zionflag etc who remain very vocal about drafting of chareidim.
Avigdor messed up this one. Eli is where many of our most distinguished soldiers get their basics in the love of Torah and love of the land. Many have paid the ultimate price. Rabbi Levenstein said nothing wrong, Leiberman does not yet realize that Eli and their fine Rabbonim are a cornerstone of our security