Israel’s Supreme Court made a groundbreaking decision on Tuesday, ruling that the IDF can now draft ultra-Orthodox men to serve in the armed forces. This decision marks the end of a longstanding system that granted exemptions to ultra-Orthodox men while imposing mandatory military service on the secular Jewish population. While this move may bolster Israel’s defense against threats like Hamas, it has sparked controversy and division within the nation.
The court’s ruling comes after years of debate and legal battles surrounding the exemption of ultra-Orthodox men from serving in the IDF. Critics have long viewed the exemption as discriminatory, creating a rift within Israel’s Jewish community over the responsibility of defending the nation. With the recent ruling, ultra-Orthodox men will be subject to the same compulsory military service as other citizens, potentially impacting thousands within the community.
Israel’s high court orders army to draft ultra-orthodox men as northern war looms and the security situation deteriorates.
It’s also a blow to Netanyahu’s coalition. As you know, the Supreme Court has its own issues with the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/IR0ZxuWD1j
— Greg J Stoker (@gregjstoker) June 25, 2024
One of the key points of the ruling is the requirement for religious schools, or yeshivas, to ensure their students comply with draft notices or risk losing government funding. This provision underscores the court’s commitment to upholding equality before the law and ensuring that all individuals contribute to the nation’s defense efforts. However, the decision has not been well-received by all parties involved, particularly the ultra-Orthodox community and their political allies.
The ruling has also raised concerns about the stability of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, as the ultra-Orthodox parties within the coalition strongly oppose any changes to the draft exemption. This clash of interests could potentially lead to a political crisis, with the possibility of early elections looming on the horizon. Netanyahu’s party, Likud, has expressed disagreement with the court’s decision and has pledged to introduce legislation addressing the draft issue.
As Israel grapples with security challenges, the implications of this ruling extend beyond military service to the very fabric of the nation’s social and political landscape. The balancing act between national defense requirements and internal cohesion remains a delicate issue for Israeli leadership. The aftermath of this ruling will test the resilience of Israel’s governance and its ability to navigate complex societal divisions in times of crisis.