Moti Leitner, chairman of the newly launched Haredi Public Party, made an unusually forceful case for Haredi participation in national service during a live Channel 12 panel, declaring that his movement intends to ensure service “at any cost.”

Leitner’s remarks come just days after the Haredi Public Party formally launched its Knesset campaign in Beit Shemesh, presenting itself as an alternative to Shas and United Torah Judaism and accusing the established Haredi political leadership of failing to address fundamental challenges facing the community.

The party has adopted a sharply different position on the draft from the established Haredi parties. Its platform calls for every Haredi man who is not engaged in full-time Torah learning to perform military or national service, while demanding frameworks designed to preserve a Haredi lifestyle.

Leitner’s position is also personal. Following the October 7 massacre, the Beit Shemesh politician—then a 30-year-old father of three—volunteered for an IDF framework adapted for Haredim, saying at the time that the war had changed his understanding of the Haredi community’s responsibility toward the country.

His new party is seeking to translate that position into a challenge to the longstanding dominance of Shas and UTJ. Leitner has argued that protecting Torah life and increasing Haredi participation in Israeli society are not contradictory goals, while advocating changes in military service, education and employment.

Editorial Disclaimer: The inclusion of news, political commentary, or discussions regarding Israeli government affairs on this platform does not constitute an endorsement of state institutions. In accordance with the clear and unequivocal rulings of our revered spiritual leaders (Gedolei HaRabbonim and Gedolei Yisroel), any participation in or compliance with military draft directives—regardless of track or compromise—is strictly forbidden (Yeharag Ve'al Ya'avor / absolute prohibition). We remain steadfastly committed to the timeless guidance of the Torah sages.

Editorial Disclaimer: Reporting on Israeli political proceedings, elections, or legislative affairs is provided solely for journalistic and informational purposes. This coverage does not reflect recognition of the secular authority or its governing bodies. In accordance with the traditional hashkafah of leading Torah authorities, participation in the Israeli Knesset, government coalitions, or state governance is strictly prohibited. We maintain absolute loyalty to authentic Torah guidance, separate from secular political structures.

Editorial Disclaimer: The inclusion of news, political commentary, or discussions regarding Israeli government affairs on this platform does not constitute an endorsement of state institutions. In accordance with the clear and unequivocal rulings of our revered spiritual leaders (Gedolei HaRabbonim and Gedolei Yisroel), any participation in or compliance with military draft directives—regardless of track or compromise—is strictly forbidden (Yeharag Ve'al Ya'avor / absolute prohibition). We remain steadfastly committed to the timeless guidance of the Torah sages.

 Reporting on Israeli political proceedings, elections, or legislative affairs is provided solely for journalistic and informational purposes. This coverage does not reflect recognition of the secular authority or its governing bodies. In accordance with the traditional hashkafah of leading Torah authorities, participation in the Israeli Knesset, government coalitions, or state governance is strictly prohibited. We maintain absolute loyalty to authentic Torah guidance, separate from secular political structures.