Israel’s ongoing draft crisis has once again shaken the coalition, but this time the decisive influence may not lie solely with politicians. According to a column published this morning in Yediot Achronot by commentator Yuval Karni, one central figure is effectively holding the fate of the proposed enlistment law in her hands: Attorney Miri Frenkel-Shor, the legal adviser to the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

The report states that after a period in which it appeared that constructive dialogue was taking place between the chareidi factions and committee chairman Boaz Bismuth, it became clear that the emerging draft of the legislation does not meet legal standards. As a result, the bill cannot advance without substantial revisions.

At the heart of the dispute is Frenkel-Shor’s firm position that any draft law must comply with principles set by the High Court of Justice in recent years, particularly the principle of equality in bearing the national burden and the imposition of meaningful sanctions. In closed-door discussions, Karni reports, she has made clear that she will not approve wording that is likely to be struck down by the court.

Standing alongside her is Knesset Legal Adviser Sagit Afik, who is said to be providing full backing to her stance. Sources within the Knesset describe intense behind-the-scenes pressure but emphasize that neither legal adviser has shown any sign of retreating.

One of the most contentious issues involves the structure of sanctions. While the chareidi parties are seeking to scale back or soften the penalties for those who do not enlist, Frenkel-Shor is reportedly insisting on a framework referred to in committee discussions as “sanctions for all.” Under this model, even if overall recruitment targets are met, individuals who fail to fulfill their personal obligation would still face consequences.

Among the measures under consideration are reductions in daycare subsidies, restrictions on leaving the country, suspension of driver’s licenses, and limitations on various financial benefits.

Chareidi sources quoted in the column argue that the position is excessively strict and effectively locks in principles previously established by former committee chairman Yuli Edelstein. Those close to Frenkel-Shor, however, stress that her position is strictly professional and intended to ensure that the law is both stable and constitutionally sound.

Karni notes that despite criticism from some political quarters, few in the Knesset question Frenkel-Shor’s professionalism. Unlike the more public confrontations seen in other committees, Bismuth’s approach toward her is described as respectful and measured.

Frenkel-Shor brings three decades of experience in the Knesset to the role. The issue of military enlistment has accompanied her throughout her career, and she is widely regarded as one of the most seasoned figures in the field of defense-related legislation.

As the column makes clear, the future of the current draft law will not be determined solely through political negotiations among coalition partners. Ultimately, its viability hinges on whether it can withstand scrutiny by the High Court. In practical terms, even if a coalition agreement is reached, without supportive legal approval the bill could stall.

For now, the drama continues, and attention is focused not only on the politicians’ negotiating rooms but also on the legal office of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

{Matzav.com}