In a groundbreaking ruling, the Israeli Supreme Court ordered the government to draft ultra-Orthodox Jews into the military, ending their long-standing exemption from mandatory military service. The court also mandated that religious schools not funding students who do not participate in the draft, a move intended to promote equality among Israeli citizens.
The ultra-Orthodox community in Israel, known as “Haredim,” practices a strict form of Judaism and makes up a significant portion of the population, with a fast-growing segment of recruitment-age individuals. The ruling specifically targets ultra-Orthodox men, emphasizing the importance of Torah study and religious observance to preserve their heritage.
The decision could have far-reaching implications, potentially impacting Israel’s governing coalition and religious-secular divides. It is poised to challenge the longstanding exemption and shift dynamics in Israeli society, signaling a significant shift in military recruitment policies.