Minister critical of Haredi draft exemption efforts says won’t seek reelection

Immigration and Absorption Minister Ofir Sofer announced he will not seek reelection, reportedly due to his strong disagreement with the coalition's efforts to exempt ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students from military service. Sofer, from the Religious Zionism party, stated, "The State of Israel must continue to fortify its security, and erect a solid, cast-iron wall, but also one that is based on values and unity." His decision follows the Knesset's approval of a controversial law temporarily banning the arrest of Haredi men evading service, which the High Court of Justice has since frozen. Sofer was absent from the vote, as were other coalition members who oppose the exemptions, with some, like Likud MKs Yuli Edelstein and Dan Illouz, announcing their departure from their parties over the issue.