The current controversy regarding drafting of Haredim (and Arabs) is long overdue.The fact that the Haredi community has grown,with large fanilies mired in poverty with little or no contributions to the welfare of the State (and its economy) could not go on forever.
Torah study is basic to our way of life.However, throughout our history great scholars have also been physicians and merchants.Yes there are a few-very few gifted individuals who deserve to remain in Yeshiva to attain the roles of dayanim and teachers on a high level.
HOWEVER, THESE SLOTS SHOULD BE ALLOCATED BY EXAMS AND NOT POLITICAL PULL.
From the economic point of view, military or public service can be a gateway to learning a profession.
The law will have to be constucted with sensitivity and common sense.
So far we have not seen massive Harerdi demonstrations.
That anyone should be suprised that Abbas is going to Tehran for a conference is beyond me. From the days of his PHD in Lumumba U. in Moscow (on Zionism and Nazism) he has been the consummate anti-semite.He has no desire,for peace with Israel,and all of his actions have negated agreements he made with Israel.
We have no peace partner,and anyone who talks about unilateral anythin(-withdrawal etc)-is just smoking funny stuff
The battle currently being waged in the Rabbinical Council of America is for the soul of modern Orthodoxy. After the death of Rabbi Steve Dworken, the leadership of the RCA has been in uncertain hands.
The attempt to hire a left wing Executive vice-President would open the door to admitting graduates of Rabbi Avi Weiss's yeshiva which is way to the left of the modern orthodox spectrum.
The battle is being played out in an on-line election of vice-presidents,who will be in line in 1 year to become President.
Should the left wing win, I believe that the organization will have a high chance of breaking up.The majority of YU Rabbis could not tolerate the left taking over,and the Roshei Yeshiva would be in the lead to reject a left wing takeover.
