Israel’s ultra-Orthodox leaders may stick with Netanyahu after failure.

Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community anticipated the High Court verdict on military conscription, expecting that they would not be exempt. The ruling also revoked state funding for ultra-Orthodox education, causing concern within the community reliant on this support. However, the court did not impose severe penalties on students who refuse to enlist, easing fears of forced recruitment.

Since the expiry of the exemption law last summer, calls for conscription grew amid war fatigue and increased pressure. Ultra-Orthodox society has long struggled with this issue, divided between pragmatic and radical approaches to cooperation with the state. The recent ruling highlights a failure by both factions to address the core concerns.

While frustration mounts within the ultra-Orthodox community over the court’s decision, political allies have failed to support their opposition to conscription. Budget disputes pose a significant threat to Haredi society, with tensions rising over education funding. The weak political leadership of the Haredim complicates their ability to navigate these challenges within the current government.