JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said Wednesday that he does not believe military service is suitable for women, reiterating that he would not advise his daughter to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces.

Speaking in a radio interview, Smotrich said he respects the sense of duty and idealism that motivates young people to serve but maintains that the structure and culture of the military make it an inappropriate environment for women. He emphasized that his position is rooted in his religious worldview and longstanding views about gender roles in public life.

Smotrich, who leads the Religious Zionism party, has previously voiced opposition to expanding women’s roles in combat units and has advocated for preserving traditional frameworks within the military. On Wednesday, he reaffirmed that stance, saying he would not recommend that his own daughter pursue enlistment.

The comments come as women continue to serve in a wide range of roles across the IDF, including combat positions, intelligence units and command posts. In recent years, the military has expanded opportunities for female soldiers, citing operational needs and broader societal changes.

Critics argue that excluding women undermines equality and ignores their contributions to national defense. Supporters of Smotrich’s position contend that maintaining certain distinctions is consistent with religious values and social cohesion.

The latest remarks are likely to renew debate within Israel over the evolving role of women in the armed forces, an issue that has periodically surfaced in political and military discussions.