Israeli War Cabinet member Benny Gantz disclosed details about his "failed" negotiations with the Haredi Jews in his attempts to convince them to join the Israeli army. According to Maariv, Gantz said: "In recent months, my group and I have met with many senior ultra-Orthodox officials, and we informed them that for the sake of the Jewish people and Israeli society, and in my opinion, also for the benefit of the ultra-Orthodox community, we need to reach an agreed-upon recruitment plan. We tried to clarify that after October 7, the Haredi community must also understand that something has changed. We have an opportunity for a historical correction, which will strengthen us now in the war."
He added: "Unfortunately, we were unable to reach agreements between us and bridge the gaps, but I still hope it’s not too late. Our proposal to define the outlines of Israeli service with broad approval is the most correct, just, and realistic solution that will lead to the recruitment of Haredi and Arab Jews, which will help the operational effort of the Israel Defense Forces today and cause a significant correction in Israeli society in the coming decade."
He continued: "All of this with great respect for Torah study, avoiding unjustified hatred, and at the same time allowing Haredi Jews to maintain their lifestyles. This offer is still valid today. I have never conditioned the issue of service on the elections, and I will not lend my hand to proposals aimed at circumventing the High Court of Justice and not responding to the needs of the Israeli army and Israeli society as suggested by the government so far."
