Ultra-Orthodox in Israel: Torah instead of military service

The Israeli government has announced a major policy shift regarding the compulsory military service for ultraorthodox Jews, allowing them to avoid legal consequences for refusing to serve. The decision comes after years of intense political and social conflict, with ultraorthodox communities resisting mandatory conscription. According to reports, the Supreme Court had previously ruled in July 2024 that ultraorthodox yeshiva students must be drafted into the army, effectively ending long-standing exemptions. Now, a new law passed by the right-wing government aims to shield ultraorthodox individuals from prosecution if they refuse to serve, potentially reversing this ruling. The law, which was approved by the Knesset without Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu present, marks a significant step in the ongoing struggle over national service obligations. It states that ongoing criminal proceedings against ultraorthodox citizens who have refused to serve will be suspended. This move has sparked widespread controversy, particularly among secular and liberal segments of Israeli society, who argue that the law undermines national security and fairness. The law is part of a broader package of legislative proposals aimed at securing support from ultraorthodox coalition partners ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. In response to the new legislation, ultraorthodox activists have taken to the streets, blocking roads in Jerusalem and engaging in clashes with police. These protests, often led by men dressed in traditional black suits and hats, have become a regular feature of public life in recent months. The demonstrations reflect deep divisions within Israeli society, with many secular Israelis viewing the ultraorthodox resistance as a challenge to democratic values and national unity. Meanwhile, the ultraorthodox community maintains that their religious studies should take precedence over military service, a stance supported by some religious leaders and politicians. The situation has escalated further in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which triggered a large-scale war in Gaza. The government’s push to weaken the authority of the Public Prosecution, one of Israel's key oversight bodies, has drawn sharp criticism from both the military and civil society. Defense Chief Eyal Zamir has stated that the new law contradicts the urgent need for more recruits, especially given the ongoing conflicts along multiple fronts. He noted that approximately 72,000 ultraorthodox men aged 18 to 24 are currently eligible for conscription, yet few have responded to draft calls. Legal challenges to the law are already underway. Just hours after its passage, the Supreme Court issued an order suspending the law until a final ruling can be made. This development raises critical questions about the government’s willingness to comply with judicial decisions. The court’s intervention underscores the high stakes involved, as the law could fundamentally alter the balance of power between the executive branch and the judiciary. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for future disputes involving constitutional rights and state authority. As tensions continue to mount, the broader implications of the law extend beyond military service. The government’s efforts to secure ultraorthodox backing through symbolic gestures, such as designating religious study as a core value of Israeli identity, are seen by critics as attempts to consolidate political influence rather than address underlying societal concerns. With parliamentary elections approaching, the issue remains a focal point for both supporters and opponents of the current administration. The coming weeks will likely see further developments as the legal battle unfolds and public sentiment continues to shape the political landscape.