The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is taking steps to address its manpower shortages by drafting members of the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community, who have been exempt from military service since the establishment of the Jewish state. The IDF will begin sending initial draft orders to Haredi members, following a recent court ruling that cleared them for recruitment.
With a population of over a million, the Haredim are known for their religious conservatism and distinctive attire. Previously exempt from serving due to their enrollment in religious schools, or Yeshivas, the Haredim argue that military service would disrupt their religious studies and beliefs.
The recent decision to draft eligible Haredi members has sparked controversy, as it ends a 76-year exemption and highlights the divide between Orthodox and secular Jews. The IDF faces a critical need for additional recruits, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announcing plans to draft 10,000 Haredi males to address the personnel shortages amidst security challenges.
This move marks a significant shift in Israeli military policy and could have lasting implications for the relationship between different segments of Israeli society.