Decision to Exempt Ultra-Orthodox Jews from Military Service Criticized
Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled that the exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men from compulsory military service has no legal basis and that those fit for military service should be drafted, a decision that has the potential to cause new civil unrest and fuel a cultural conflict in Israel.
Lando, one of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish leaders, criticized this decision, saying that “war has been declared on the world of the Bible” and that a new conflict has been started by drafting yeshiva students into the army. Lando said, “The hands of the army are tied with iron chains by the judges” and called on yeshiva students not to go to the military offices.
Government Rejects Haredim’s Request for Military Exemption
The Supreme Court has rejected Benjamin Netanyahu’s government’s request for an extension of the military exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews until a new military law is drafted. The court also ordered the slashing of funding for Haredi students. The government’s request for an extension of the military exemption for Haredim was rejected.
A bill to exempt Haredim from military service was passed in the Israeli Parliament, but opposition parties criticized the decision, while parties representing ultra-Orthodox Jews opposed it.
Ultra-Orthodox Jews and Military Service
Most of the country’s ultra-Orthodox Jews refuse to perform military service and make up about 12 percent of the population. Haredi Jews generally refuse military service on religious grounds and prefer to study in Torah schools.
- Ultra-Orthodox Jews refuse to integrate into the rest of society in Israel.
- There is a three-year compulsory military service for men and women in the country.
- Ultra-Orthodox Jews are exempt from military service as long as they receive education in Torah courses.
| Haredim and Military Service | Detail |
|---|---|
| Exemption from Military Service | Haredi Jews may be exempted from military service, but the issue is controversial in society. |
| Supreme Court Decision | The Supreme Court ruled that there was no legal basis for exempting Haredim from military service. |
| Social Impacts | Exempting Haredim from military service can cause divisions and conflicts in society. |
