they're cracking down, and also good to realize that the problem isn't only in the haredi sector. Yair Lapid, the North Tel Avivi, thunders, "Everyone must serve!" What a laugh. Of those in his areas who still serve, almost none serve in combat units anymore--at least according to stats I've seen. Combat-unit soldiers from north and central Tel Aviv can be counted on one hand.

Refusing to contribute to ones country is a disease that causes rot from within. We are a small country that in 64 years became a First World country because we all pulled together to build our land. Sadly many, too many, died but we remember and honor their memory. I am new to Israel but will do anything I can or am asked to do to make any contribution to better my country. #1 is right, "EVERYONE MUST SERVE!"

Normally I would not make the distinction, but with so much political activity and trouble over the Tal law, it needs to be said - these are NOT Haradim. Haradim are NOT the only ones NOT serving. Add to that the comment about half of these are women (obviously secular) who falsely declared they were religious.

The draft dodgers are traitors who completely lacks empathy for their people. When I make Aliyah next year I'll apply for service in the IDF even though I'll be a few years older than the draft age. I could not consciously live in Israel without serving in the IDF, knowing other Israelis are risking their life for you and the country while you do nothing yourself is despicable.

I made aliyah in the middle of the path; did four months of training, after that did reserve duty, sometimes up to 1.5 months per year, in an artillery unit (they used us for infantry work, patrolling towns in the territories and that kind of thing). It's the best possible form of integration into Israel. You meet people from all walks of life. As anywhere else, not all of them are pleasant, while some are noble and admirable. But the experience is invaluable.

This news disappoints me. I joined the US Navy at 17 and first visited Israel in Operation Desert Storm. I fell in love with the people and the most beautiful woman I've ever seen was in an IDF uniform with an uzi outside of the USO in Haifa. I hope to make aliyah in the next few years and hope I'm able to serve in some capacity, though I'm almost 40 now. If they can use me, they can have me. My fate is with the Jewish people and therein lies my duty to serve & protect them.

They will probably be found dancing the night away in the Tel Aviv nightclubs, in the bars or just smoking nargila on the beach and when you ask them why they are draft dodging they will tell you they are anti war peace activists so they refuse to serve. I would like to know why Yair Lapid has nothing to say about this lot because he has always got something to say about how terrible it is that haredi don't serve.

I would be proud to serve in the IDF. Its one of the best forces in the world and I thank them for serving. Shalom.

Some young people have mental problems and it is very difficult for them. Please don't judge !