Haredi leaders, Yahya Sinwar: Different ideologies, the same refusal to face reality – opinion

This opinion piece draws a parallel between the fanaticism of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and certain Haredi political leaders in Israel, emphasizing that while their moral universes differ, their refusal to let reality modify doctrine is similar. The article highlights Sinwar's willingness to sacrifice Gaza for his ideological goal of destroying Israel, even contemplating nuclear attack, as detailed in an article by Herb Keinon. Similarly, it criticizes Haredi leaders for celebrating legislation that exempts ultra-Orthodox men from military service, despite the IDF's urgent need for soldiers during ongoing conflicts. The author, a rabbi, clarifies that he is not comparing the Haredi community to Hamas, stating, "There is no moral equivalence between Hamas and haredi Judaism." Instead, he focuses on the shared "fanaticism of leaders who elevate one ideological demand above the safety of their own people." The piece argues that insisting on blanket exemptions weakens the army, burdens other citizens, and is not a defense of Torah values, which prioritize the preservation of life and shared responsibility. It concludes by urging Israeli citizens to consider national security over political expediency in upcoming elections.