Article 431156

Energy Minister Eli Cohen, a member of the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet, expressed alignment with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stance on haredi military service during an interview with Kan Moreshet. He called for draft legislation to be enacted following elections and discussed Israel's approach to Iran, Gaza, and Palestinian statehood.

Cohen reiterated the Likud party's long-standing position: "Anyone whose Torah study is not their full-time occupation should enlist." He contended the draft law should have been passed during the current Knesset session and advocated for its completion after elections in a manner that respects Torah study while addressing IDF operational requirements. Cohen attributed the delay partly to the Prime Minister's focus on managing the ongoing war and suggested earlier passage could have prevented disputes over related legislation, including proposals for a Basic Law on Torah Study.

Discussions with haredi leaders suggested to Cohen that they too support military service for those not engaged in yeshiva study. On the upcoming elections, Cohen backed Likud's decision allowing the prime minister to reserve candidate list positions while maintaining that most selections would proceed through primaries. He characterized the elections as historically significant due to efforts to prevent Palestinian statehood and complete judicial reform.

Cohen asserted that Israeli public opinion has shifted rightward since October 7, though polling does not fully reflect this. He criticized leaders from rival political factions and urged right-wing voters toward Likud.

Regarding Iran, Cohen stated the Tehran regime has avoided direct attacks on Israel because it recognizes potential Israeli response severity. While acknowledging President Donald Trump's diplomatic efforts, Cohen expressed skepticism of agreements with Iran, saying genuine regional stability requires the regime's fall. "A regime that oppresses its own people and drives them into economic collapse cannot continue to exist," He warned.

On Gaza, Cohen said Israel would pursue diplomacy contingent on Hamas disarming, though he deemed voluntary agreement unlikely. "If that doesn't happen, we have the ability to do it ourselves," He said.

Cohen concluded by addressing post-war planning, stating "Experience has proven that where there is no settlement, there is no security." Regarding proposals to rebuild Jewish communities in northern Gaza, he declared: "There will be only one state between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea - the State of Israel."